Definify.com
Webster 1913 Edition
Diorama
Diˊo-ra′ma
,Noun.
[Gr. [GREEK] to see through; [GREEK] =
διά
through + [GREEK] to see; cf. [GREEK] that which is seen, a sight: cf. F. diorama
. Cf. Panorama
.] 1.
A mode of scenic representation, invented by Daguerre and Bouton, in which a painting is seen from a distance through a large opening. By a combination of transparent and opaque painting, and of transmitted and reflected light, and by contrivances such as screens and shutters, much diversity of scenic effect is produced.
2.
A building used for such an exhibition.