A1noun1K

CD

UK /["/ˌsiː ˈdiː/"]/US /["/ˌsiː ˈdiː/"]/

Definition

a small disc on which sound or information is recorded. CDs can be played or read on various types of machines, including CD players and computers. (the abbreviation for ‘compact disc’)

In simple words: A small disc that holds music or data.

Examples

  • I bought a new CD of my favorite band.
  • He listened to the CD while driving to work.
  • She recorded the lecture onto a CD for later use.
  • The old CD is scratched and doesn't play well anymore.
  • I still prefer listening to music on a CD rather than streaming online.

Usage notes

CDs are commonly used for music and data storage but are less popular now with digital downloads. Use in discussions about music and technology; not appropriate in informal contexts.

Grammar pattern

standalone

Memory hint

Think of 'Compact Disc' as a 'Compact Disk'; it's a small circular disk!

Collocations

  • budget
  • full-price
  • mid-price
  • insert
  • play
  • put on
  • drive
  • player
  • burner
  • on CD
  • on a/​the CD

Synonyms

  • disc
  • compact disc
  • optical disc

Antonyms

  • digital download
  • streaming

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'CD' with 'DVD', which holds more data.
  • Using 'CD' as a verb; it’s a noun only.
  • Assuming everyone knows what a CD is, especially younger generations.