Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

clapperboard

noun

/ˈklæpərˌbɔrd/

Definition

A clapperboard is a device used in filmmaking to assist in synchronizing sound and picture, as well as marking specific scenes and takes during production.

Examples

The director called for a quiet on set as the sound engineer prepared for the next shot with the clapperboard.
She snapped the clapperboard before the start of the scene, signaling the camera to roll.
Using a clapperboard helps editors easily identify different scenes and takes during post-production.

Meaning

In the context of film, a clapperboard serves as a visual slate that typically displays important information about the shot being filmed, including the scene number, take number, and sometimes the production title.