Cels

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

  1. As an abbreviation, refers to units of temperature measured in degrees Celsius ; as a plural noun, can mean multiple compartments or cells within an organism or structure
  2. Used to indicate temperatures on the Celsius scale ; collectively designates separate enclosed spaces such as biological cells or small rooms
  3. Denotes a specific temperature measurement system as degrees Celsius ; can also signify multiple individual divisions or units such as cells in science or architecture

Etymology: The term "cels," as a noun, is a shortened form derived from "celluloids," which refers to the transparent sheets used in traditional animation. These sheets, made from cellulose nitrate or cellulose acetate, were the primary medium for hand-drawn animation before the digital era. The word "cell" in this context emerged in the early 20th century alongside the rise of animated films, when animators needed a practical way to layer characters and backgrounds separately for the camera. The abbreviation to "cels" became common among animators and collectors, serving as a convenient shorthand. Each cel would be painted with parts of an animated character or scene, then stacked over a static background and photographed frame by frame to create the illusion of movement. This technique was fundamental to the golden age of animation, with studios like Disney popularizing cel animation in the 1930s and beyond. The origin of the word "celluloid" itself traces back to the mid-19th century when it was coined to describe one of the first synthetic plastics made from cellulose. "Cell" in this sense comes from the Latin "cellula," meaning a small room or compartment, reflecting the material's thin, sheet-like form. Over time, "celluloid" was shortened to "cel" in animation jargon, distancing it from its broader use as a plastic. Though digital animation has largely replaced cels, original hand-painted sheets remain treasured artifacts among collectors and historians. The term has thus become a symbol of a distinct era in animation history, evoking the meticulous craftsmanship that went into creating beloved classic cartoons.

Synonyms: degree Celsius, degree centigrade, temperature, heat, warmth

Antonyms: cold, coolness, chill, frost, freeze