A to Z
Glossary
Short definitions of the words that come up when you make video with code: what they mean, why they matter for a Reel and the numbers to remember.
A
- Alpha channelAn alpha channel stores transparency per pixel, which makes overlays possible. Which video formats keep it, which editors read it and the green-screen fallback.
- Aspect ratio 9:16The 9:16 aspect ratio is the vertical format of Reels, TikTok, Shorts and Stories. What it means, the 1080 x 1920 size, how it compares with 4:5, 1:1 and 16:9.
C
D
E
G
- Green screenGreen screen means a solid green background that an editor removes with a chroma key. How it compares to a real alpha channel and when to use each for overlays.
- GSAP timelineA GSAP timeline is a sequence of animations placed at exact times. What it is, why video renderers need it paused and seekable, and the rules for exact frames.
H
K
L
- Lower thirdA lower third is the name and title graphic in the lower part of the frame. Where it goes in 16:9 and 9:16 video, timing rules and transparent versions.
- LUFSLUFS measures how loud audio sounds over time, not its peaks. What LUFS means, why about -14 LUFS suits social video and how to measure a finished render.
R
S
- Safe zoneThe safe zone is the part of a video frame that no app interface covers. Definition, the pixel numbers for Reels, TikTok and Shorts, and how to use them.
- Seamless loopA seamless loop ends exactly where it begins, so it repeats without a jump or a click. How it works for animated backgrounds and music, and how to make one.
- StemsStems are the separate parts of a music track, such as drums, bass and the rest, that add up to the full mix. What stems are and how to use them in short video.
T
16 pages in this section.