# raster

/ˈɹæstɝ/ (US) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/raster
Updated: 2026-10-18

## Definition

a grid of tiny squares of color that together make a picture on a screen or in a digital photo.

For teachers: a rectangular grid of pixels scanned line by line to form an image on a display or in a digital file. Contrasts with vector graphics, which store shapes as mathematical paths rather than fixed dots.

## Examples

- This photo uses raster graphics with tiny pixels.
- The designer converts the logo to raster format before printing the poster.
- Unlike vector images that scale cleanly, raster files lose sharpness when enlarged because their fixed grid of pixels becomes visible.

## Usage notes

- Often used attributively in phrases like 'raster image', 'raster graphics', and 'raster scan'.

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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.