# roll tape

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/roll-tape
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To begin recording or playing back audio or video material.

## Examples

- The director told the crew to roll tape.
- We are ready for the interview, so please roll tape when the guest arrives.
- The producer signaled the technician to roll tape just as the lead actor began his final, emotional monologue.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.