phenakistoscope Meaning, Definition & Usage

Phen`a*kis"to*scope noun
Etymology
Gr. a deceiver + -scope.
Definitions
  1. A revolving disk on which figures drawn in different relative attitudes are seen successively, so as to produce the appearance of an object in actual motion, as an animal leaping, etc., in consequence of the persistence of the successive visual impressions of the retina. It is often arranged so that the figures may be projected upon a screen.

Webster 1913