photographic

adjective

pho·​to·​graph·​ic ˌfō-tə-ˈgra-fik How to pronounce photographic (audio)
Synonyms of photographicnext
1
: relating to, obtained by, or used in photography
2
: representing nature and human beings with the exactness of a photograph
3
: capable of retaining vivid impressions
a photographic memory
photographically
ˌfō-tə-ˈgra-fi-k(ə-)lē How to pronounce photographic (audio)
adverb

Examples of photographic in a Sentence

photographic images of the galaxy
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Simpson was identified by the occupants aboard Del Sol's boat through a photographic lineup, according to the affidavit. — Bill Hutchinson, ABC News, 7 Aug. 2026 Launched in 1960, Project CORONA became the world’s first successful photographic reconnaissance satellite program. — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 6 Aug. 2026 Poland’s Infrastructure Ministry is now drafting a reform requiring photographic proof during inspections that a car is actually sitting in a Polish garage. — Catherina Gioino, Fortune, 4 Aug. 2026 For example, during a luggage delay in Barcelona, having digital copies of packing lists, purchase receipts for workshop materials, and photographic evidence of bag contents enabled full replacement reimbursement within two weeks. — Christopher Elliott, Forbes.com, 2 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for photographic

Word History

First Known Use

1839, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of photographic was in 1839

Phrases Containing photographic

Rhymes for photographic

See All Rhymes for photographic

Browse Nearby Words

photographer
photographic
photographic magnitude
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Cite this Entry

“Photographic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/photographic. Accessed 20 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

photographic

adjective
pho·​to·​graph·​ic ˌfōt-ə-ˈgraf-ik How to pronounce photographic (audio)
1
: relating to, obtained by, or used in photography
photographic supplies
2
: capable of remembering details exactly
a photographic memory
photographically
-i-k(ə-)lē How to pronounce photographic (audio)
adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on photographic

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for photographic

Nglish: Translation of photographic for Spanish Speakers

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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