Dictionary

film noir

noun \-ˈnwär\

: a movie about crime that uses dark shadows and lighting to show the complicated moral nature of the subject; also : this style of film

plural film noirs \-ˈnwär(z)\ or films noir or films noirs \-ˈnwär\

Full Definition of FILM NOIR

:  a type of crime film featuring cynical malevolent characters in a sleazy setting and an ominous atmosphere that is conveyed by shadowy photography and foreboding background music; also :  a film of this type
ADVERTISEMENT

Origin of FILM NOIR

French, literally, black film
First Known Use: 1958

Browse

Next Word in the Dictionary: filmographyPrevious Word in the Dictionary: filmmakingAll Words Near: film noir
ADVERTISEMENT
How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.
Test your vocab with our fun, fast game
Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears