hi-fi

American  

[hahy-fahy] / ˈhaɪˈfaɪ /

noun

1. high fidelity.

2. a phonograph, radio, or other sound-reproducing apparatus possessing high fidelity.

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adjective

1. of, relating to, or characteristic of such apparatus; high-fidelity.

hi-fi British  

/ ˈhaɪˈfaɪ /

noun

1. 1. short for high fidelity

   2. ( as modifier )

      hi-fi equipment

2. a set of high-quality sound-reproducing equipment

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Etymology

Origin of hi-fi

1945–50, shortened form of high fidelity

Example Sentences

It went through some renovations and at times advertised that patrons would have access to private telephones, full tiled baths and “free hi-fi music.”

From Los Angeles Times • May 15, 2025

In his statement, the star criticised the platform for not offering hi-fi quality, lossless audio to its users.

From BBC • Mar. 13, 2024

The company made critically acclaimed, sophisticated hi-fi systems whose buyers included Frank Sinatra and Hugh Hefner.

From New York Times • Jun. 30, 2023

Dubbed “Supremium” internally, according to people familiar with the strategy, the new tier will be Spotify’s most expensive plan and likely offer a hi-fi feature the company first announced it was working on in 2021.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 22, 2023

But while he was with us, Ed Johnson was a one-man recreation department in blue jeans and a V-necked sweater, playing for our dancing pleasure all the latest records on his homemade hi-fi system.

From "October Sky" by Homer Hickam

Related Words

• audio system
• radio
• sound system