Di`o*ra"ma (?), n. [Gr. &?; to see through; &?; = dia` 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.

• A three-dimensional display of a scenery, often having a painted background in front of which models are arranged. Eg in a museum where stuffed animals are presented against a painted landscape.