high-definition

adjective

high-def·​i·​ni·​tion ˈhī-ˌde-fə-ˈni-shən How to pronounce high-definition (audio)
: being or relating to an often digital television system that has either 720 or 1080 scan lines per frame and a wide-screen format
high definition noun
a program broadcast in high definition

Examples of high-definition in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Sure, the image quality isn't high-definition 4K, but that's part of its charm. — Jamie Spain, Condé Nast Traveler, 5 Sep. 2026 The category began to mature from short, chaotic clips into cohesive, high-definition sequences. — Coco Mao, Forbes.com, 1 Sep. 2026 What came of this self-examination were over sixty videos made in high-definition 3D, produced in weekly sessions over the course of more than a year, beginning in February 2025. — Jeffrey Weiss, Artforum, 1 Sep. 2026 Those investments included installing 326 high-definition cameras throughout the plant, applying specialized anti-graffiti coatings in restrooms, and implementing a strict rapid-response process to report and remove offensive material. — Jamie L. Lareau, Freep.com, 1 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for high-definition

Word History

First Known Use

1981, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of high-definition was in 1981

Rhymes for high-definition

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Browse Nearby Words

high-def
high-definition
high-density lipoprotein
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Cite this Entry

“High-definition.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/high-definition. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

high-definition

adjective
: relating to or being a television with a more detailed and sharper picture than usual
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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