: a camera lens aperture setting indicated by an f-number

Examples of f-stop in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In this case, the smaller the f-stop, the better. New Atlas, 25 Jan. 2026 Silent control appeals to videographers who may need to change the f-stop when recording. PCMAG, 12 Mar. 2025 All camera lenses lose some detail at very narrow f-stops, a result of optical diffraction. PC Magazine, 9 Sep. 2025 What sets it apart is the smartphone companion app, which gives you the option to use features like Tripod Mode, Manual Mode, or setting a custom f-stop in Aperture Priority Mode. Boutayna Chokrane, WIRED, 3 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1946, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of f-stop was in 1946

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“F-stop.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/f-stop. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!