webcam

plural webcams

1. artsA video camera whose output may be viewed in real time over a computer network, originally the World Wide Web.

   As Covid-19 lockdowns took effect around the world, millions turned to remote working and organising virtual hangouts with friends. Overnight, webcams went from mundane computer accessories to gold dust.

   2020 July 25, Chris Baraniuk, “No end to Covid-19 webcam shortage”, in BBC News

   1 more example

   And while the Webcams focused on street scenes and other public gathering spots do seem to occupy an uncertain status as a new medium, they perhaps raise an ethical question: Is this the cinéma vérité of cyberspace or is it private surveillance?

   1996 April 29, Steve Lohr, “Dining Out in Manhattan: How to See and Be Seen”, in The New York Times, →ISSN, page D24

present singular third person webcams · participle present webcamming · participle past webcammed · past webcammed

1. intransitiveTo take part in a video communication using a webcam.

   I got on his computer and wrote the note. I swear there was nothing on his screen like he was webcamming with her but she must have been recording.

   2014, Robert K. Tanenbaum, Fatal Conceit, Simon and Schuster, →ISBN, page 178

2. transitiveTo film and broadcast with a webcam.

   We should webcam it.

   2010, Mick Herron, Slow Horses, page 139