Definition, synonyms and related words
A computer program that displays aesthetic patterns or images when the computer is not being used, originally intended to prevent screenburn.
"The old office computers ran a colorful geometric screensaver whenever they were left unattended during lunch breaks."
In plain English: A screensaver is a program that displays moving pictures on your computer screen when you aren't using it to keep dust off and prevent burn marks.
"She installed her favorite photograph as the screensaver on her computer monitor."
Usage: A screensaver is software designed to display moving images on an inactive monitor to protect it from burn-in damage. While modern monitors rarely require this protection for safety reasons, people still use these programs primarily as a decorative background while the computer waits.
The word screensaver is a compound formed from "screen" and "saver." It was first used to describe software designed to protect computer monitors by displaying moving images when the device was idle.