motion capture

American  

[moh-shuhn kap-cher] / ˈmoʊ ʃən ˌkæp tʃər /

noun

1. a data collection technique in which the movements of people and objects are tracked, recorded, and rendered to create animations, as for a video game.

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motion capture British  

noun

1. a process by which a device can be used to capture patterns of live movement; the data is then transmitted to a computer, where simulation software displays it applied to a virtual actor

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Etymology

Origin of motion capture

First recorded in 1980–85

Example Sentences

During their first two visits, participants received a baseline MRI and walked on a pressure sensitive treadmill while motion capture cameras measured the mechanics of their gait.

From Science Daily • May 22, 2026

It also has motion capture technology so astronauts can track their performance.

From BBC • May 22, 2026

The motion capture system used to prescribe each person's walking change is expensive and time consuming.

From Science Daily • May 22, 2026

Cox and his castmates led calls for motion capture performers to have their own awards category to recognise their contribution.

From BBC • Mar. 12, 2026

Zinman owned an existing production studio in Downtown L.A., which was designed to do motion capture and virtual production for TV.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 23, 2025