Liberal Dictionary English Dictionary
noun
- an early motion-picture theater where a film or a variety show could be seen, usually for the admission price of a nickel.
- an early jukebox that was operated by inserting nickels.
noun US
- an early form of jukebox
- (formerly) a cinema charging five cents for admission
- (formerly) a Pianola, esp one operated by inserting a five-cent piece
1888, “motion picture theater,” from nickel “five-cent coin” (the cost to view one) + -odeon, as in Melodeon (1840) “music hall,” ultimately from Greek oideion “building for musical performances” (see odeon). Meaning “nickel jukebox” is first attested 1938.