DictionaryreflexMirror-viewing camera
noun

reflex

A camera that uses a mirror to show the view through its lens.

The photographer raises a reflex to compose the image through its lens.

Etymology

The Latin source describes bending or turning back. A reflex camera uses a mirror to redirect the light so the viewfinder shows the lens's view.

More examples

  • He collected older reflexes.
  • The reflex used a viewing mirror.
  • She compared the reflex with a rangefinder.

Forms

reflex · reflexes

Similar words

rangefinder
Uses a separate focusing system rather than the lens-viewing mirror.
mirrorless
A camera type without the reflex mirror mechanism.