cassette

American  

[kuh-set, ka-] / kəˈsɛt, kæ- /

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.

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cassette British  

/ 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

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Etymology

Origin of cassette

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

Example Sentences

It remains to be seen why Holly now has a cassette tape copy of Tiffany's 80s hit, I Think We're Alone Now, given to her by Henry, who she called Mr Whatsit.

From BBC

When my home-recorded cassette of the Christmas singles wore out, I was always on the lookout for a replacement, and eventually, the internet provided.

From Salon

A cassette tape is shown alongside an evidence slip from the Palm Beach Police Department.

From The Wall Street Journal

His library task was to dub every LP in the collection onto cassettes.

From Los Angeles Times

The narrative adventurousness comes to the fore when the action abruptly cuts to the present day as young women listen to cassette recordings of our main characters.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• tape