reel-to-reel

[ reel-tuh-reel ]

adjective

1. of or relating to an audio sound-equipment system or motion-picture camera or projector through which the tape or film must be threaded onto a take-up reel.

reel-to-reel

adjective

1. (of magnetic tape) wound from one reel to another in use
2. (of a tape recorder) using magnetic tape wound from one reel to another, as opposed to cassettes

Word History and Origins

Origin of reel-to-reel¹

First recorded in 1960–65

Example Sentences

He had on the seat between us an enormous reel-to-reel tape recorder.

From The Daily Beast