# playback

/ˈpɫeɪˌbæk/ (US) · /plˈeɪbæk/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/playback
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

the act of listening to or watching something you have recorded. You use this when you want to check a video or audio file you just made.

For teachers: the reproduction of previously recorded sound or video signals. Refers to both the process of playing back and the quality of the resulting output.

## Examples

- The video playback is very smooth.
- After recording the interview, the journalist checked the playback to ensure the audio was clear enough for transcription.
- High-end audio equipment aims for faithful playback, ensuring that the listener hears the recording exactly as the artist intended without any artificial distortion or coloration.

## Usage notes

- Often used as an uncountable noun for the process, but can be countable when referring to a specific instance of playing a recording.

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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.