GIF

Or gif

[jif, gif]

noun

1. a set of standards and file format for storage of digital color images and short animations.

2. a file or image stored in this format.

verb (used with object)

GIFFed, giffed, GIFFing, giffing. 

1. to create a static or animated GIF from (an image or set of images).

   She GIFFed her favorite actor having a good laugh and posted it on her blog.

GIF

/ ɡɪf /

noun

1. 1. a standard compressed file format used for pictures

   2. a picture held in this format

Pronunciation Note

It is understandable that computer users who encounter this acronym for the first time might well assume that since the “G” stands for “graphic,” gif should similarly be pronounced with an initial hard g, as in go and give. However, the inventor of the format, Steve Wilhite, has insisted from its introduction at a computer conference in the late 1980s that the pronunciation is , with an initial soft g, as in gelatin and giant. That pronunciation is even part of the official specifications for the format and is the one used by many computer gurus, but both pronunciations are commonly in use.

Word History and Origins

Origin of GIF¹

First recorded in 1985–90; g(raphic) i(nterchange) f(ormat)

Word History and Origins

Origin of GIF¹

C20: from g ( raphic ) i ( nterchange ) f ( ormat )

Example Sentences

Sheen slammed against rock bottom several times before, but those trips to rehab and eventual career recoveries hadn’t occurred in a media age accelerated by social media and dehumanized by GIFs and viral clips.

From Salon

There I am, in a series of GIFs.

From BBC

In a moment crafted to provide us with endless GIFs, the friends are chased by kids armed with super soaker guns who hose the women in water, but you can’t wash away entitlement.

From Los Angeles Times

The internet has wholly embraced “Family Guy” and its jokes are perpetuated through memes, GIFs and TikTok videos.

From Los Angeles Times

The broadcast mishap inspired jokes and GIF reactions shading CBS, and prompted some fans to share what other viewers missed.

From Los Angeles Times