pose
POHZ
/poʊz/
To assume a deliberate body position for a photograph; an arranged stance or attitude.
Implies intentional positioning of body, posture, or facial expression for artistic or display purposes.
The story behind the word. Evolved from Old French 'poser', combining Latin 'pausare' (to halt) and 'ponere' (to place). To pose meant halting movement to remain fixed in a position for painted portraiture or photographic capture.
Word relationships
- posture: Posture refers to general standing/sitting carriage, while pose implies a temporary stance for photography.
- model: Model implies posing professionally for fashion or art.
- slouch: Slouching is an informal, natural relaxation of posture without artistic intent.
Commonly confused with
- pause: Pause means to temporarily stop action, while pose means to hold a specific body posture for camera.
Word family
- poser (noun): One who poses, or someone who affects an artificial attitude.
- posture (noun): Bearing or carriage of the body.
Collocations
- pose for a picture
- strike a pose
- deliberate pose
Idioms & expressions
- strike a pose
Example sentences
- "Tourists gathered near the monument to pose for pictures against the sunset." Sightseeing at landmarks
Memory hook
POSE: Freeze in Position for the camera lens. Hold still for the camera.
When not to use
Do not use to describe natural, unaware candid moments.
Fun facts
- In Victorian portrait studios, concealed metal headrests were placed behind sitters to help them hold their pose during minute-long exposures.
Related words
Also appears in
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