adjective

lossy

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Lossy (adjective) means In computing, describing an algorithm or format that reduces the amount of information in data when converting or compressing it. Example: “MP3 uses lossy compression, so some audio detail is discarded.”

adjective

technical In computing, describing an algorithm or format that reduces the amount of information in data when converting or compressing it.

"MP3 uses lossy compression, so some audio detail is discarded."

"He avoided saving the image in a lossy format to protect its quality."

"Lossy compression can shrink a file a great deal, at the cost of some detail."

technical In telecommunications or electricity, describing a channel or line that is subject to loss of signal strength or power.

"A lossy cable weakens the signal over long distances."

"The old power line was lossy, wasting energy as heat."

How to use lossy

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishLossy describes something that loses part of its information or signal, usually to save space or because of imperfect transmission.

When to use it

This word is technical and appears mainly in computing, telecommunications and electrical engineering.

Memory tip

If a format is lossy, expect a smaller file but a small drop in quality.

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Common pairings

lossy compression lossy format lossy transmission line

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

MP3 uses _____ compression, so some audio detail is discarded.

Etymology

Formed in English from loss with the suffix -y.

Origin: English

Rhymes for lossy

bossy glossy

See all rhymes for lossy →

Frequently asked questions

What does lossy mean in compression?

A lossy method reduces file size by permanently discarding some of the original information.

Is lossy compression bad?

Not necessarily; it trades a small amount of quality for a smaller file, which suits many everyday uses.

Where does the word lossy come from?

It is formed from loss plus the suffix -y, describing something prone to loss.

What is the meaning of lossy?

"lossy" (adjective) means in computing, describing an algorithm or format that reduces the amount of information in data when converting or compressing it.