# recorder

/ɹiˈkɔɹdɝ/ (US) · /ɹɪkˈɔːdɐ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/recorder
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. electronic device

noun · CEFR A2

a machine or device used to save sound, video, or data so you can listen to or watch it later.

For teachers: an apparatus designed to capture and store audio, video, or data on a medium for subsequent reproduction.

- He used a small digital recorder to capture the interview in the noisy café.
- The technician checked the flight data recorder to determine the exact sequence of events leading up to the engine failure.

### 2. musical instrument

noun · CEFR A2

a simple woodwind instrument that you play by blowing into one end and covering holes with your fingers.

For teachers: a woodwind instrument of the fipple flute family, characterised by an internal duct and eight finger holes.

- Many children learn to play the recorder as their first instrument at school.
- The ensemble performed a series of Baroque sonatas specifically composed for the treble recorder and harpsichord.

### 3. person who keeps records

noun · CEFR B2 · Formal

someone whose job is to write down or keep track of official information.

For teachers: an individual appointed to maintain official records or document proceedings.

- The court recorder typed every word the witness said during the trial.
- As the official recorder for the historical society, she was responsible for archiving all correspondence from the nineteenth century.

### 4. judicial officer

noun · CEFR C1 · British English · Formal

a type of judge in certain courts, especially in the UK.

For teachers: a legal officer or judge, typically serving in a municipal or provincial court.

- The case was heard before a recorder at the local crown court.
- The newly appointed recorder presided over the criminal proceedings with a reputation for strict adherence to sentencing guidelines.

## Examples

- I used a voice recorder to capture the interview.
- The technician checked the flight data recorder to understand what happened during the landing.
- Modern digital recorders offer high-fidelity sound capture and extensive storage capacity, making them indispensable for journalists and field researchers who require precise documentation of their observations.

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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.