recorder
- 01 A2 Elementary
a machine or device used to save sound, video, or data so you can listen to or watch it later.
an apparatus designed to capture and store audio, video, or data on a medium for subsequent reproduction.
Simple“He used a small digital recorder to capture the interview in the noisy café.”
In context“The technician checked the flight data recorder to determine the exact sequence of events leading up to the engine failure.”
- 02 A2 Elementary
a simple woodwind instrument that you play by blowing into one end and covering holes with your fingers.
a woodwind instrument of the fipple flute family, characterised by an internal duct and eight finger holes.
Simple“Many children learn to play the recorder as their first instrument at school.”
In context“The ensemble performed a series of Baroque sonatas specifically composed for the treble recorder and harpsichord.”
- 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
someone whose job is to write down or keep track of official information.
an individual appointed to maintain official records or document proceedings.
Simple“The court recorder typed every word the witness said during the trial.”
In context“As the official recorder for the historical society, she was responsible for archiving all correspondence from the nineteenth century.”
Synonyms - 04 C1 Advanced
a type of judge in certain courts, especially in the UK.
a legal officer or judge, typically serving in a municipal or provincial court.
Simple“The case was heard before a recorder at the local crown court.”
In context“The newly appointed recorder presided over the criminal proceedings with a reputation for strict adherence to sentencing guidelines.”
Synonyms
From Middle English recordour, borrowed from Old French recordour, from Old French recordeor, from Medieval Latin recordātor, from Latin recordor (“call to mind, remember, recollect”), from re- (“back, again”) + cor (“heart; mind”). By surface analysis, record + -er.
From Middle English recorder, from record (“to practice (music)”); ultimately cognate with Etymology 1.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.