noun

MP4

em-pee-FOUR

MP4 (noun) means a widely supported file format that holds video together with sound, and sometimes subtitles, in a single file. Example: “Export the edit as an MP4 and it'll play on just about anything.”

noun

A widely supported file format that holds video together with sound, and sometimes subtitles, in a single file.

"Export the edit as an MP4 and it'll play on just about anything."

"The camera records straight to MP4."

A single video saved in that format.

"She dropped the MP4 into the shared folder."

How to Use MP4

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe common file type for videos.

When to use it

Everyday word. Written in capitals with a numeral.

Memory tip

MP4 names the container, not the compression inside it, so "MP4 quality" depends on the codec and settings used.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

MP3 → MOV MKV AVI → H.264

Common pairings

export as MP4 MP4 file convert to MP4 play the MP4

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.

Test yourself on “MP4” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

Export the edit as an _____ and it'll play on just about anything.

Etymology

Short for MPEG-4 Part 14, from MPEG, an acronym of Moving Picture Experts Group.

Origin: English

Synonyms

View more →

video file video format container format

Rhymes for MP4

MP3

See all rhymes for MP4 →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between MP3 and MP4?

MP3 is an audio-only format. MP4 is a container that usually holds video with an audio track, though it can hold audio alone. Despite the similar names they are not different versions of the same thing.

What is a container format?

A container is a wrapper that packages separate streams — picture, sound, subtitles — into one file, along with information about how they line up. The picture and sound inside are compressed by their own codecs, such as H.264 for video and AAC for audio, which is why two MP4 files can behave quite differently.

Why won't some MP4 files play?

Because the container plays fine but the codec inside is not supported by the player. An MP4 encoded with a newer video codec may open on a recent phone and fail on an older television, even though both accept MP4 files in general.