cassette

[kuh-set, ka-]

noun

1. Also called cassette tape. a compact case containing a length of magnetic tape that runs between two small reels: used for recording or playback of audio or video in a tape recorder, cassette deck, video camera, or VCR, and for storage of data by some small computer systems.

2. Photography.,  a lightproof metal or plastic container for a roll of film, having a single spool for supplying and rewinding the film.

3. a replaceable or refillable cartridge in a typewriter or printer that contains the ribbon or ink.

4. a case or tray in a printer or copier that holds the paper.

cassette

/ kæˈsɛt /

noun

1. 1. a plastic container for magnetic tape, as one inserted into a tape deck

   2. ( as modifier )

      a cassette recorder

2. photog another term for cartridge

3. films a container for film used to facilitate the loading of a camera or projector, esp when the film is used in the form of a loop

4. the injection of genes from one species into the fertilized egg of another species

Word History and Origins

Origin of cassette¹

1955–60; < French, equivalent to casse “box” ( case ² ) + -ette -ette

Word History and Origins

Origin of cassette¹

C18: from French: little box; see _case ²

Example Sentences

She said she tried to "hang on" to Karen as she got on a bus after an argument over Karen stealing a cassette recorder in 1981, but she failed to stop her.

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Recently, Rose started collecting audio cassettes, which he plays on an outdated boombox complete with an antenna.

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“My dad wasn’t into music at all, but he randomly happened to pick up an amazing selection of cassettes,” says Wiggs.

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The phrase worked almost like those self-esteem cassette tapes I used to see in bookstore displays as a kid: corny, repetitive, weirdly powerful — a kind of culinary manifestation.

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I remember when cassettes became a threat to vinyl.

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Related Words

• tape