telephoto lens

noun

, Photography.

1. a lens constructed so as to produce a relatively large image with a focal length shorter than that required by an ordinary lens producing an image of the same size: used to photograph small or distant objects.

telephoto lens

/ ˈtɛlɪˌfəʊtəʊ /

noun

1. a compound camera lens in which the focal length is greater than that of a simple lens of the same dimensions and thus produces a magnified image of a distant object See also zoom lens

Word History and Origins

Origin of telephoto lens¹

First recorded in 1940–45

Example Sentences

In this era of the telephoto lens, she can have no bad hair days for the rest of her life.

From The Daily Beast

This in turn I have displaced with a Dallmeyer telephoto lens, mounted in aluminum, which I consider a marvelous instrument.

From Project Gutenberg

The telephoto lens is a great help in taking the more timid subjects.

From Project Gutenberg

Through my high-powered telephoto lens I saw Yardley come into the room and sit down at his desk.

From Project Gutenberg

I am sorry I did not have a telephoto lens, for I could have secured a fairly good picture of the group.

From Project Gutenberg

Thaneford, with his telephoto lens, sees that Graeme is dozing in his chair.

From Project Gutenberg