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Turntable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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turntable

[หˆtษ™rnหŒteษชbษ™l ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

music

A turntable is a circular rotating platform that spins a vinyl record for playback.

Synonyms

phonograph, record player, vinyl player.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
turntable

Used mostly in the context of DJing or for playing vinyl records in hi-fi systems. It refers to the rotating platform which spins the vinyl disc.

  • The DJ set up his turntable to start the party.
  • Many audiophiles prefer listening to music on a high-quality turntable.
record player

A more general term for any device that plays vinyl records. Commonly used in everyday conversations.

  • I inherited my grandfather's record player along with his vinyl collection.
  • She bought a new record player to listen to her favorite albums.
vinyl player

A modern term often used by younger generations or vinyl enthusiasts. It specifically refers to a device used to play vinyl records.

  • He loves collecting vinyl records, so he invested in a high-end vinyl player.
  • The vinyl player was a perfect addition to their living room decor.
phonograph

An older term, often used when referring to early models of record-playing devices or in a historical context.

  • Thomas Edison invented the phonograph in 1877.
  • The old phonograph in the antique shop caught my eye.

Examples of usage

  • He placed the vinyl record on the turntable and carefully lowered the needle.
  • The DJ used the turntable to mix and scratch music during the party.
Context #2 | Noun

technology

In technology, a turntable refers to a rotating platform used for various purposes, such as display or manufacturing.

Synonyms

revolving base, rotating platform.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
turntable

Commonly used in the context of music, particularly for vinyl record players, or in model railroading to rotate train engines.

  • He placed the new vinyl on the turntable
  • The model train moved onto the turntable to change tracks
rotating platform

Often used in industrial or commercial situations to describe a surface that rotates for easier access or display of items.

  • The rotating platform in the factory allowed workers to assemble parts more efficiently
  • The car was displayed on a rotating platform at the auto show
revolving base

Typically used to describe a rotating base in various mechanical or display settings, less specific to any one industry.

  • The art piece stood on a revolving base, allowing viewers to see all sides
  • The kitchen appliance featured a revolving base for easy access

Examples of usage

  • The product display had a rotating turntable to showcase different angles of the item.
  • The turntable in the factory helped in the assembly process by rotating the components.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The first mechanical turntables were developed in the late 1800s to convert sound vibrations into electrical signals.
  • Thomas Edison invented the phonograph in 1877, which was an early precursor to the modern turntable.
  • The introduction of vinyl records in the 1940s boosted the popularity and design of turntables.

Pop Culture

  • In hip-hop culture, DJs use turntables to creatively manipulate sound, creating beats and mixes during live performances.
  • Turntables have featured prominently in music videos and movies, symbolizing the art of DJing and remixing.
  • Famous DJs like Grandmaster Flash and Qbert have elevated turntables to an art form with their skills in scratching and mixing.

Technology

  • Modern turntables often come with features like pitch control, built-in speakers, and USB outputs for digitizing music.
  • High-fidelity turntables focus on quality sound reproduction, with better components for audiophiles and music lovers.
  • Some turntables can also play different sizes of records, such as 33 1/3 RPM and 45 RPM, allowing more music options.

Art and Design

  • Turntables can be crafted from various materials, including wood and metal, impacting their aesthetic and sound quality.
  • Some artists create visual art inspired by turntables and vinyl records, using them as canvases or installations.

Origin of 'turntable'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'turntable' comes from the action of turning and the flat table-like structure it uses to hold records.
  • The term has been used since the 19th century, originally referring to a rotating platform for various purposes.

The word 'turntable' originated in the late 19th century, combining 'turn' and 'table'. It initially referred to a revolving or rotating platform and later became associated with music playback devices, especially vinyl record players. Turntables have evolved over the years from mechanical crank-operated devices to modern electronic versions used by DJs and audiophiles.

See also: downturn, overturn, turn, turnaround, turncoat, turner, turning, turnout, turnover, turnpike.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,930, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.