Di`o*ra"ma (?), n. [Gr. to see through; = through + to see; cf. 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.
© Webster 1913.