noun
screen
SKREEN
noun
1
A flat surface on a device or in a cinema on which images or text are displayed.
"She stared at her phone screen all evening."
verb
1
To examine or test someone or something to detect a problem, risk, or suitability.
"Patients are screened for high blood pressure at every visit."
"Job applicants are screened before an interview is offered."
2
To shield or conceal something from view.
"A tall hedge screens the garden from the road."
3
To show a film or program publicly.
"The documentary was screened at the local festival."
How to Use Screen
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA display surface, or to check/test/shield something, or to show a film publicly.
Common pairings
screen for cancer
big screen
screen a movie
smoke screen
Word Forms
screened past tense, Screens plural, screens singular
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Etymology
From Old French escren, probably borrowed from a Dutch word for a shelter or barrier, ultimately from a Proto-Germanic root meaning covering or protection.