tape drive

noun

, Computers.

1. a program-controlled device that reads data from or writes data on a magnetic tape which moves past a read-write head.

tape drive

noun

1. computing a device for reading from or writing to magnetic tape

Word History and Origins

Origin of tape drive¹

First recorded in 1950–55

Related Words

• disk drive
• hardware
• modem
• personal computer
• supercomputer