Noun

Wikipedia

Singular graphics

Plural uncountable

graphics (uncountable)

1. The making of architectural or engineering drawings.
2. The graphic arts.
3. (computing) The pictorial representation and manipulation of data; the process by which a computer displays data.

Derived terms

• bitmapped graphics
• vector graphics
• 3D graphics
• 2D graphics
• graphics engine

Related terms

• graph
• graphic
• graphical

Graphics (from Greek γραφικός; see -graphy) are visual presentations on some surface, such as a wall, canvas, computer screen, paper, or stone to brand, inform, illustrate, or entertain. Examples are photographs, drawings, Line Art, graphs, diagrams, typography, numbers, symbols, geometric designs, maps, engineering drawings, or other images. Graphics often combine text, illustration, and color. Graphic design may consist of the deliberate selection, creation, or arrangement of typography alone, as in a brochure, flier, poster, web site, or book without any other element. Clarity or effective communication may be the objective, association with other cultural elements may be sought, or merely, the creation of a distinctive style.

Graphics can be functional or artistic. The latter can be a recorded version, such as a photograph, or an interpretation by a scientist to highlight essential features, or an artist, in which case the distinction with imaginary graphics may become blurred.