What does webcasting mean?
Webcasting is the broadcasting of audio, video, or other material over the internet, especially through a webpage or streaming platform. It may describe the process itself—as in “the webcasting begins at noon”—or a particular online broadcast, and the word can also function as a verb: “the station webcast the ceremony live.” Its modern use grew alongside the World Wide Web and helped make public events, news, entertainment, and community meetings accessible to geographically dispersed audiences. Webcasting is not limited to live programming; prerecorded material can also be presented online. The term is broad enough to cover audio-only streams, video, and combined broadcasts, although podcasting is more specifically associated with episodic or downloadable audio. In professional and media contexts, webcasting usually carries a neutral, practical tone, while “webcast” may refer to the resulting program or stream itself.
The act or process of broadcasting audio, video, or other content over the internet; also, a broadcast made in this way.
"Live webcasting allowed thousands of people to attend the launch remotely."
The word can denote either the transmission process or the resulting webcast.
To broadcast audio, video, or other content over the internet.
"The university webcast its graduation ceremony for students unable to attend in person."
Often used with events, news, sports, entertainment, and educational material, either live or after recording.
The plural is grammatically formed but uncommon; “webcasts” is normally preferred when referring to multiple broadcasts.
"Separate webcastings are available for the morning and afternoon sessions."
Before video calls became routine, webcasting helped turn the internet into a stage for live events.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of webcasting
Webcasting emerged in the late 20th century as broadcasting developed over the World Wide Web. It is a compound of “web” and “broadcast,” with the suffix “-ing” forming a gerund and an associated noun. “Web” derives from Old English “webb,” originally meaning woven fabric, while “broadcast” is an English compound of “broad” and “cast.”
Related word forms
How webcasting is actually used
Webcasting is an established technical and media term with a neutral tone. It can refer either to the process of transmission or to a particular webcast, and it is not necessarily limited to live programming. The plural “webcastings” is uncommon; “webcasts” is normally preferred for multiple broadcasts.
Easily confused with webcasting
Webcasting can include live or recorded audio, video, and other content delivered over the web, whereas podcasting specifically refers to publishing audio episodes through the internet.