IPA: //ˈdɒli//
KK: /ˈdɑli/
To move a wheeled platform that holds a camera closer to or further away from a scene.
The crew decided to dolly in for a close-up shot of the actor.
Past: dollied
Past Participle: dollied
A small platform on wheels used to move heavy items easily.
The workers used a dolly to transport the heavy boxes across the warehouse.
The word 'dolly' originates from the diminutive form of the name 'Dorothy', which is derived from the Greek 'doron' (meaning gift) and 'theos' (meaning god). The term 'dolly' has come to refer to a child's toy or a small model of a person, often used in play.
Think of 'Dolly' as a little 'gift' ('doron') from a 'god' ('theos') — that's why a dolly is a cherished toy for children.