tape deck

American  

noun

1. a component of an audio system for playing tapes, using an external amplifier and speakers.

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tape deck British  

noun

1. a tape recording unit in a hi-fi system

2. the platform supporting the spools, cassettes, or cartridges of a tape recorder, incorporating the motor or motors that drive them and the playback, recording, and erasing heads

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Etymology

Origin of tape deck

First recorded in 1955–60

Example Sentences

Before that, he put a tape deck on a rolling cart.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 4, 2025

However, not everyone was blown away, with the Hollywood Reporter saying it's "a disappointing farewell", and Mashable saying the series risked going out with the "fizzled whimper of a message self-destructing in a tape deck".

From BBC • May 25, 2025

Ellie, while not understanding airplanes, cars or seat belts, somehow figures out a cassette tape deck and pushes play.

From Salon • Jan. 30, 2023

My laptop was almost dead, and in the night I’d have just enough voltage for light, and maybe a few songs on my old tape deck that I bought the year Ronald Reagan was elected.

From Seattle Times • Jan. 19, 2022

I mean, it has a tape deck and crank windows.

From "Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda" by Becky Albertalli