audiocassette
Definition
Noun: A self-contained, rectangular plastic case containing magnetic tape used for recording and playing back sound. It is designed to be inserted into a cassette player or recorder.
Usage
An "audiocassette" is a specific type of cassette for audio purposes. It refers to the complete, physical object—the case and the tape inside—used for storing audio recordings.
Examples
- I found an old audiocassette of my parents' wedding music.
- Before streaming, people often bought music on audiocassette.
- The interview was recorded on an audiocassette.
Advanced Usage
- Historical/Retro Context: The term is often used when discussing older technology or media formats from the late 20th century.
- The museum had an exhibit on the history of music formats, from vinyl records to the audiocassette to the CD.
- As a Medium: Can be used to refer to the format itself.
- Was the album ever released on audiocassette?
Variants and Related Words
- Cassette: A more general term that can also refer to videocassettes or other data cartridges. "Audiocassette" specifies its use for sound.
- Tape: A common, informal shortening (e.g., "mix tape," "tape recorder"), though "tape" can also refer to the magnetic strip itself or other formats like reel-to-reel tape.
- Compact Cassette: The formal, technical name for the standard audiocassette format invented by Philips.
Synonyms
- Tape cassette
- Music cassette
- Compact Cassette (formal)
Antonyms
- There are no direct antonyms, but modern digital formats serve a similar function: digital file, stream, CD (Compact Disc), vinyl record.
Related Phrases/Idioms
- Mixtape: A compilation of songs recorded onto an audiocassette, typically from various sources, often made as a personal gift.
- He made her a romantic mixtape for her birthday.
- Cassette tape: A common two-word phrase with the same meaning as "audiocassette."
- Play/Record on cassette: The standard phrasing for using the medium.
- I need a player to listen to this cassette.
Noun
-
a cassette for audiotape
