What does pixelated mean?
Pixelated describes an image, display, or other digital visual made up of visibly distinct pixels. The individual pixels may appear as tiny squares, producing jagged outlines, uneven detail, or a blocky texture. The term is especially common in discussions of digital photography, computer graphics, video games, and older electronic displays, where it often indicates that the resolution is too low for the image to look smooth. Pixelated can also describe a deliberate aesthetic choice: artists and designers may apply pixelated effects to create a retro or deliberately simplified appearance. In ordinary usage, the word most often conveys lower visual quality, although its meaning depends on context. A carefully designed pixelated image is not necessarily a faulty one, while a badly pixelated video is usually an unintended loss of image quality.
adjectiveMade up of or appearing as a collection of distinct pixels, especially with visible square edges. It may also mean a digital image or display that has been reduced in quality or resolution.
- Consisting of visible pixels, especially with a blocky or jagged appearance.
- Reduced in visual resolution so that individual pixels are apparent.
"The old photograph looked striking when someone converted it into a pixelated portrait."
"The game’s graphics were badly pixelated on the old television."
"She used a pixelated filter to give her photographs a vintage look."
Pixelated once described the structure of digital images; it can now also suggest an image that has deliberately been made to look coarse or retro.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does pixelated come from?
Pixelated was formed in the late 20th century from pixel, a term coined for the smallest addressable element of a digital image, with the suffix -ated. The word pixel itself derives from an older form meaning “picture” or “element of a picture,” ultimately connected with Latin roots associated with painting and depiction. Related English words such as picture and pictorial preserve that older etymological connection.
Related word forms
How pixelated is actually used
The word is common in digital technology, photography, film, and computer graphics. It can describe a deliberate visual style as well as an image or display whose resolution is poor; the latter use often carries a negative connotation.
Easily confused with pixelated
Both words are accepted spellings of the same adjective, although the spelling with one “l” is more common.