Tape Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tape

[teɪp ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

audio recording

A long thin piece of material, typically rolled up and stored, that is used to record sounds or moving images.

Synonyms

cassette, recording, video.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
tape	Refers to a long, narrow strip of material, typically used for fixing or binding things together. Can also mean magnetic tape used for recording sound or images. Often used in general contexts. I need some tape to wrap the gift Could you pass me the tape to record this song?
cassette	Refers specifically to a small, flat, rectangular plastic case containing audio or video tape for playing or recording. Often used when talking about music or video from the late 20th century. I found an old music cassette from the 80s Do you have a cassette player?
recording	Refers to capturing sound or video by any means, on any medium. It is often used in contexts where the focus is on the act or result of recording, rather than the medium itself. The recording of the concert was excellent She played the recording for us
video	Refers specifically to moving visual media. It can be used for analog or digital formats and is widely used in contexts involving movies, TV shows, and other visual content. We watched a video of the party last night Can you send me the video of your graduation?

Examples of usage

He put a new tape in the cassette player.
I need to rewind the tape before playing it again.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

adhesive

A narrow strip of material, typically sticky on one side, used for sealing or attaching things.

Synonyms

adhesive strip, adhesive tape, sticky strip.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
tape	Used twice by mistake, same as the general description for 'tape' previously given. She used tape to wrap the birthday present. The box was secured with strong tape.
adhesive strip	Best used in professional or technical contexts to describe a strip with adhesive properties, often used in medical or industrial settings. The nurse applied an adhesive strip to the wound. Engineers used adhesive strips to stabilize the components.
sticky strip	Informal term used to describe a strip that's sticky on one side, often in casual conversations or situations where the technical term isn't necessary. He fixed the torn page with a sticky strip. There are sticky strips to hang posters on the wall.
adhesive tape	Commonly used in both everyday and professional environments to describe any tape that is sticky on one side, often used in medical, art, and office supplies. In the first aid kit, you'll find adhesive tape for bandages. Artists often use adhesive tape to create clean lines.

Examples of usage

She used tape to stick the poster to the wall.
The box was securely closed with tape.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

record

To record on tape.

Synonyms

capture, document, record.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
tape	Used when physically attaching something using adhesive tape, not related to data or media recording. She used tape to stick the poster on the wall. I need some tape to seal this package.
record	Used when storing audio or video, written accounts, or data systematically for future reference. Please record the meeting so that those who missed it can listen later. The scientist will record the results of the experiment in a logbook.
capture	Used when taking a photo, recording a moment, or securing data or information, often with a sense of seizing or preserving something fleeting. The photographer was able to capture the beauty of the sunset. We need to capture this data before the system shuts down.
document	Used when creating written records, reports, or files to provide evidence or information. It is important to document all expenses during the trip. She needs to document the steps she took during the experiment.

Examples of usage

They decided to tape the interview for future reference.
I will tape the show so we can watch it later.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'tape'

The word 'tape' originated from the Old English word 'tæppe', which referred to a long, narrow strip of material. Over time, 'tape' evolved to have various meanings, including a magnetic storage medium for sound or video recordings, as well as an adhesive strip used for sealing or attaching items. The use of tape has become widespread in modern technology and everyday life, revolutionizing the way we record and secure objects.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,606, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.

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