Definition

A small theater that shows classic or experimental films, often focusing on art-house cinema.

Example

We decided to visit the local cinematheque to watch a classic film from the 1960s.

Conversation

Have you ever been to the local cinematheque?

No, I haven't! What's special about it?

They show a lot of classic and avant-garde films that you can't find anywhere else.

That sounds amazing! We should check it out sometime.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cinematheque is formed from "cinema" (from French *cinéma*, meaning motion picture or film) and "-theque" (from Greek *thēkē*, meaning repository or place for storing). The word refers to a place where films are stored and shown, essentially a film library or archive.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'repository' ('-theque') for 'motion pictures' ('cinema') — that's what a cinematheque is, a place where films are kept and displayed.

Visually Confused Words