What does stereophonic mean?
Stereophonic describes sound recorded or reproduced through two or more channels so that listeners can perceive direction, width, and depth. Unlike monaural sound, which comes through a single channel, stereophonic sound can place an instrument or voice at a particular apparent location within a listening space. The word is commonly associated with hi-fi equipment, cinema sound, music recordings, and broadcasts, although the technique also appears in other audio contexts. It derives from a combination of “stereo,” associated with three-dimensional or solid form, and “phonic,” relating to sound. As an adjective, it can modify recordings, speakers, systems, sound, or a performance. The shorter form “stereo” is now widely used as both a noun and adjective, but “stereophonic” remains useful when the multichannel nature of the sound or equipment is especially relevant.
adjectiveRelating to or employing sound reproduced through two or more separate channels to create a sense of spatial depth. It may also describe recordings or playback systems that reproduce such sound.
- Relating to sound reproduction that uses two or more channels to create an impression of spatial depth.
- Recorded or played back through two or more sound channels.
- Consisting of or employing stereo sound equipment.
"The orchestra was recorded in stereophonic sound, giving the performance an impressive sense of width and depth."
"We watched the concert in stereophonic sound, with the audience appearing to extend around us."
"The label restored the album and issued it as a stereophonic recording."
Its name combines stereo, meaning “solid” or “three-dimensional,” with phonic, meaning “relating to sound,” so it literally evokes three-dimensional listening.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does stereophonic come from?
Stereophonic was formed in the early 20th century from “stereo-,” a combining form associated with solid or three-dimensional form, and “-phonic,” relating to sound. The first element ultimately comes from Greek stereos, meaning “solid,” while the second derives from Greek phōnē, meaning “sound” or “voice.” The term originally distinguished sound reproduction using multiple channels from single-channel, or monophonic, reproduction.
Related word forms
How stereophonic is actually used
The term is standard in British and American English. It applies more precisely to multichannel sound reproduction and is sometimes used more broadly for a strongly spatial audio effect.
Easily confused with stereophonic
Stereophonic describes a method of reproducing sound through multiple channels, whereas spatial describes the resulting quality of occupying or appearing to occupy space.