hologram

noun

ho·​lo·​gram ˈhō-lə-ˌgram  ˈhä- 

: a three-dimensional image reproduced from a pattern of interference produced by a split coherent beam of radiation (such as a laser)

also : the pattern of interference itself

Did you know?

A hologram is a picture of a "whole" object, showing it in three dimensions. We've all seen cheap hologram images on credit cards and ID cards (where they help prevent copying). Far more impressive are large holograms that take the form of a ghostly 3-D moving figure that you can walk around to see from all angles. Holograms were invented in 1947 but only perfected after the invention of the laser in 1960. Today they're used in such technologies as compact-disc players and checkout scanners, and holograms can be created of the inside of live internal organs to permit doctors to examine the organs in great detail. And soon televisions with hologram technology may enable us to watch in "3-D".

Examples of hologram in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Just as a hologram evokes a sense of depth from a wavy pattern etched onto a flat surface, patterns in the microscopic components of the universe may give rise to another spatial dimension. —George Musser, Quanta Magazine, 13 June 2025

This sound bubble surrounds the passenger listening to music or watching a movie, while the person in the next seat, also in their own hologram, remains undisturbed. —Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 12 June 2025

As one of the most intelligent individuals on Earth, Michael Holt uses T-spheres, computerized floating orbs that respond to his voice, for a variety of purposes, including force field creation and hologram projection. —EW.com, 10 June 2025

In one room meant to look like a studio, visitors can ask a hologram Sam Walton a question and get an answer, something that will likely go viral on Instagram once the word is out. —Rebecca Deurlein, Forbes.com, 2 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

holo- + -gram

First Known Use

1949, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for hologram

• abraham
• anagram
• cablegram
• cofferdam
• dendrogram
• diagram
• diaphragm
• epigram
• hexagram
• histogram
• instagram
• kilogram

Kids Definition

hologram

noun

ho·​lo·​gram ˈhō-lə-ˌgram  ˈhäl-ə- 

: a three-dimensional picture made by a complex pattern of light (as laser light)

Medical Definition

hologram

noun

ho·​lo·​gram ˈhō-lə-ˌgram  ˈhäl-ə- 

: a three-dimensional image reproduced from a pattern of interference produced by a split coherent beam of radiation (as from a laser)

also : the pattern of interference itself