special effect

American  

[spesh-uhl i-fekt] / ˈspɛʃ əl ɪˈfɛkt /

noun

Movies, Television.

1. Usually special effects a video or audio illusion in film or other media, created with computer-generated images, prosthetic makeup, pyrotechnics, etc. SFX

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Etymology

Origin of special effect

First recorded in 1940–45

Example Sentences

Nimble and inventive, with convincing special effects work, the film is a charming parable that continually finds ways to reset itself.

From Los Angeles Times

Developing longer stories with less money, the TV shows makers need to be inventive, creative with their resources, so they invest in characters and ideas rather than special effects and action.

From Los Angeles Times

Her father, Don, was a cinematic and special effects wizard who worked on numerous Disney attractions, including the Michael Jackson-starring film “Captain EO.”

From Los Angeles Times

In contrast, working on Mercy was "like a long performance of a two or three-act stage play", but "with special effects on a par with any of the great big blockbusters".

From BBC

Umba, the movement specialist underneath the simian special effects, is convincing.

From Los Angeles Times