Definition

1. Noun:
   • A digitally encoded recording on an optical disk: A "compact disk" is a flat, circular storage medium that uses optical technology (laser light) to read data encoded as a series of microscopic pits.
   • A medium for audio, data, or software: It typically stores digital information such as music, computer programs, or other data, and is physically smaller than a vinyl phonograph record.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • I bought the new album on compact disk.
  • The software was distributed on a compact disk.
  • Please insert the compact disk into the drive.

Advanced Usage

• "CD" as an abbreviation: "Compact disk" is almost universally abbreviated as "CD" in everyday and technical language.
  • Make sure you back up your files to a CD.
• In compound terms (listed separately): The core technology led to specific variants like CD-ROM (for read-only data) and CD-R (for recordable disks).

Variants and Related Words

• CD: The standard abbreviation for "compact disk."
• Compact Disc: An alternate, equally common spelling.
• Optical Disk: A broader category of storage media that includes compact disks, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs.
• CD-ROM (Compact Disk Read-Only Memory): A type of compact disk that contains pre-recorded data.
• CD-R (Compact Disk-Recordable): A compact disk that can be recorded on once by the user.

Synonyms

• Optical disc: A general term for this category of storage media.
• Disc: A common short form in context (e.g., "Insert the disc").

Related Phrases

• To burn a CD: The process of recording data onto a recordable compact disk.
  • I need to burn a CD of these photos for my grandparents.
• CD player: A device used to play audio compact disks.
  • The car has a built-in CD player.

Noun

1. a digitally encoded recording on an optical disk that is smaller than a phonograph record; played back by a laser