playback

American  

[pley-bak] / ˈpleɪˌbæk /

noun

1. the act of reproducing a sound or video recording, especially in order to check a recording that is newly made.

2. (in a recording device) the apparatus used in producing playbacks.

3. the recording so played, especially the first time it is heard or viewed after being recorded.

4. the response to a suggestion, act, product, venture, etc.; feedback.

   The playback on the speech has been very favorable.

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playback British  

/ ˈpleɪˌbæk /

noun

1. the act or process of reproducing a recording, esp on magnetic tape

2. the part of a tape recorder serving to reproduce or used for reproducing recorded material

3. (modifier) of or relating to the reproduction of signals from a recording

   the playback head of a tape recorder

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verb

1. to reproduce (recorded material) on (a magnetic tape) by means of a tape recorder

Etymology

Origin of playback

First recorded in 1925–30; noun use of verb phrase play back

Example Sentences

No one is identified by anything but first names, including Russell’s mother, Karen, who is the only one who can’t bear to hear the playback.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026

Ping times to Europe and Australia often exceeded 300 to 500 milliseconds, which could lead to buffering or lag during high-bandwidth playback.

From Salon • Mar. 21, 2026

“Was just reading today that newborns will suck on a pacifier more vigorously if it triggers playback of a recording of her/his mother’s voice than another woman’s voice,” Tramo wrote to Epstein.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 12, 2026

Singh did not explain why he was quitting playback singing, but reports say he will finish existing commitments and projects and continue making music independently, exploring creative projects beyond commercial cinema.

From BBC • Jan. 28, 2026

He clicked on the TV and thumbed the remote to find the Dog Squad playback.

From "Dog Squad" by Chris Grabenstein