From computer screen to smokescreen to the big screen, here's a list of the many different kinds of screens and what they are used for.

1. Partitions:

Partitions can separate us from things that are potentially dangerous, like fire. They can act as a divider between people, like a folding screen, or between the protected and outside world, like windshields or window screens. "Smoke screen" refers to opaque, gas walls built by military groups. While these walls are temporary, they last long enough to divert enemy troops.

2. Filters:

Screens can act as both literal and metaphorical filters. A sieve, for instance, is an actual filter. It traps unwanted content. Selection screening is also designed to get rid of something undesirable such as specific phenotypes (genetic screen), or materials (mechanical screening). We all go through screening at some point throughout our lives, whether it be in an academic examination or having to walk through a metal detector at the airport.

3. Media:

In the media screens are built for television, projectors, and computers. There are several kinds of projectors, including digital, movie, overhead, and slide. They tend to be silk screens which can be easily stored away. Some are built in such as movie theatre projection screen. Sometimes they aren't required at all- a simple white wall would suffice.

4. Arts:

Split-screening is a filming technique, whereupon several film sequences are shown next to each other at the same time. Silk screening is a method of printing where a woven mesh is used to support a stencil. Ink is dropped into the open areas and filtered through the mesh onto some kind of foundation. "Big screen" is a term often used when referring to the cinema or Hollywood.

5. Sports:

"Screening" is a technique used in almost every team sport involving a ball. It is when an offensive player blocks a defender of the opposite team, in an effort to clear the way for his/her teammates to score, shoot, or pass. The offensive player responsible for blocking is known as the "screener", while he/she who takes the ball is called the "cutter".

6. Shade:

Shade screens are a type of partition in that they protect the Earth, and people who inhabit it, from the sun. These structures can range vastly in size, from umbrellas to elaborate concrete walls. One of the most notable qualities of shade screens or "brise- soleils" is that they are environmentally friendly. By blocking out the sun they keep us cool without the need for air conditioning.

Evidently "screen" is an extremely versatile word. Ironically, its meaning is usually very clear.