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Definition of playback

playback

/ˈpleɪˌbæk/
play · back
Plural:playbacks
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playback Lexical Profile

playback Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The reproduction of previously recorded audio or video, especially immediately after recording to check its quality.

Example

"The sound engineer adjusted the volume levels during the playback of the interview."

2

In filmmaking and live television, a pre-recorded soundtrack played on set so that performers can synchronize their lip movements, dancing, or actions to it.

Example

"The actors practiced lip-syncing to the playback before the cameras started rolling."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for playback
Antonyms
View all antonyms for playback

Word Nuance & Usage

The closed compound noun 'playback' refers to the reproduction of recorded sound or video, whereas the two-word phrasal verb 'play back' describes the action itself (e.g., 'Please play back the message').

• Rhymes for playback

• Nearby Words

playable
playact
playacting
playback
playbill
playbook
playboy

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Playback. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/playback
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