offscreen

American  

[awf-skreen, of-] / ˈɔfˈskrin, ˈɒf- /

adjective

1. occurring, existing, or done away from the motion-picture or television screen.

   an offscreen voice.

2. in real life rather than on the motion-picture or television screen.

   the newscaster's offscreen personality.

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adverb

1. apart or away from motion-picture or television performances; in actual life.

   Offscreen he's a racing-car enthusiast.

Etymology

Origin of offscreen

First recorded in 1930–35; off + screen

Example Sentences

Ms. Keaton’s elegant looks, warm laugh, broad smile, her canny intelligence and broad streak of whimsy made her as sought-after offscreen as on.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 12, 2025

One thing she says she struggled with was being asked by producers to repeat conversations she'd had with Javen offscreen for the cameras.

From BBC • Sep. 2, 2025

The film’s mix of offscreen speakers often provides context for what’s happening in the 1918 story when we see modern images that correspond to the action described.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 27, 2025

Controversy: The actresses’ discord played out offscreen as Crawford actively campaigned against Davis, who earned a nomination for lead actress — her 10th and final nod.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 20, 2025

Dad walks offscreen, the gravel and leaves crunching under his footsteps, then brings Mom in, blindfolded.

From "The House That Lou Built" by Mae Respicio