Like other LCD imaging technologies, MVA is named after the behavior of liquid crystals inside subpixels. For MVA, these are usually divided into four domains. When idle, their configuration resembles a tree (hence the name Multi-domain Vertical Alignment). An electric current then enables their opening and the subsequent light transmition.
In other words, subpixels do not let any light through when idle. This represents a significant difference compared with the older TN technology. If a subpixel or pixel is damaged, it remains black. In comparison with TN screens, MVA offers a significant improvement in colour reproduction. Viewing angles are also improved. In terms of both quality and price, MVA technology belongs somewhere between IPS and TN. While MVA monitors cannot match premium IPS, they still provide a more-than-sufficient picture quality.