MP3

1. the file extension for MPEG Audio Layer-3, a set of standards for compressing and downloading audio files from the internet.

2. a file compressed in this format.

MP3

abbreviation

1. MPEG-1 Audio Layer-3: tradename for software created by the Motion Picture Experts Group that enables files to be compressed quickly to 10% or less of their original size for storage on disk or hard drive or esp for transfer across the internet

2. an audio or video file created in this way

MP3

1. An MPEG standard used especially for transmitting music digitally over the Internet. Many programs are available to facilitate the transfer of these files, but there are numerous legal issues regarding the swapping of files and violation of copyright laws.

MP3

1. A file containing compressed digital audio data, often used to transmit music over the Internet.

Word History and Origins

Origin of MP3¹

First recorded in 1990–95

Example Sentences

Vacillating between songs that revive the yelpy, big build, bigger hook indie-rock of the late ‘00s and various tries at writing the next “Harborcoat,” Ohio’s False Teeth have created catnip for former college radio DJs, mp3 bloggers and mixtape makers alike.

From Salon

"Times change all the time. One time you were cutting records on vinyl next it was on CD, then MP3 and digital… it's about moving with the times," he says.

From BBC

The peer-to-peer service — where fans swapped catalogs of MP3 song files — walloped the record business.

From Los Angeles Times

Pitchfork began in the era of CDs and — with discerning tastes and unrivaled curation — shepherded voracious music fans into the mp3 and peer-to-peer file-sharing age of Napster and into the streaming era beyond.

From Seattle Times

I set up my laptop, my MP3 player in my ears and my textbook in front of me.

From Slate