recording

American  

[ri-kawr-ding] / rɪˈkɔr dɪŋ /

noun

1. the act or practice of a person or thing that records.

2. sound recorded on a disk or tape.

3. a disk or tape on which something is recorded.

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recording British  

/ rɪˈkɔːdɪŋ /

noun

1. 1. the act or process of making a record, esp of sound on a gramophone record or magnetic tape

   2. ( as modifier )

      recording studio

      recording head

2. the record or tape so produced

3. something that has been recorded, esp a radio or television programme

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Etymology

Origin of recording

1300–50; Middle English (gerund); see record, -ing ¹

Explanation

A recording is the recorded audio that's stored on a tape or an electronic device. If you make a recording of your history class lecture, you'll be able to listen to it later when you study for the midterm exam (or when you want to nod off to sleep). The business of making and selling popular songs can be called "the recording industry," and you can also talk about a recording of your favorite jazz album. In addition to audio recordings, there are also video recordings, like the one you take of your little brother's dance recital or soccer game. Recording comes from the verb record, which we can trace back to the Latin recordari, "remember, call to mind, or be mindful of."

Example Sentences

"As part of the plan, a working group is developing guidance to support improvements in the recording and monitoring of violent incidents across local authorities and schools."

From BBC • May 18, 2026

No established recording artist wants to represent the UK in case it damages their career.

From BBC • May 17, 2026

“They’re pouring into this space and their creators,” Lathan said, before recording a new “Higher Learning” episode.

From Los Angeles Times • May 16, 2026

Carter then went solo and began recording music with producer Rick Hall and Fame in Muscle Shoals, amid the late-’60s soul boom.

From Los Angeles Times • May 14, 2026

Downstairs in the basement, Isa was recording her violin CD.

From "The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street" by Karina Yan Glaser