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.
The pilot has a 4K ultra-high-definition screen in the cockpit instead, which re-creates the outside view digitally. — Jacopo Prisco, CNN Money, 6 Aug. 2026 Typically, these dots are used in advanced solar cells, bio-imaging, and ultra-high-definition displays. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 4 Aug. 2026 SpaceX frequently utilizes its high-data capabilities to stream high-definition live views of its Falcon 9 and Starship rocket launches from orbit. — Josh Dinner, Space.com, 21 July 2026 When activated, the cameras collect high-definition, wide-angle video that shows what's in front of the officer, often at a 120-degree field of vision. — Stephen J. Beard, USA Today, 15 July 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

See All Rhymes for high-definition

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 10 Aug. 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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