noun
PNG
pee-en-JEE
PNG (noun) means an image format that stores a picture without losing any detail and can make parts of the image transparent, commonly used for logos, screenshots and graphics with sharp edges. Example: “Export the logo as a PNG so the background stays transparent.”
noun
1
An image format that stores a picture without losing any detail and can make parts of the image transparent, commonly used for logos, screenshots and graphics with sharp edges.
"Export the logo as a PNG so the background stays transparent."
"Screenshots on this machine save as PNG by default."
2
An individual image saved in that format.
"I've attached a PNG of the chart."
How to use PNG
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAn image file that keeps full quality and can have a see-through background.
When to use it
Everyday word among designers, developers and general computer users. Written in capitals.
Common pairings
transparent PNG
export as PNG
PNG with alpha
save the screenshot as a PNG
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Export the logo as a _____ so the background stays transparent.
Etymology
An initialism of Portable Network Graphics.
Synonyms
View more →
portable network graphics
image format
lossless image
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between PNG and JPEG?
PNG is lossless, so it keeps every pixel exactly as it was, which suits flat colour, text and sharp lines. JPEG discards fine detail to shrink the file, which suits photographs. PNG also supports transparency, so a logo can sit on any background, while ordinary JPEG cannot.
Why is a PNG file often so large?
Because nothing is thrown away. Lossless compression only removes genuine repetition, so a detailed photograph saved as PNG can be several times the size of the same photograph as a JPEG.
Does PNG support animation?
The base PNG format holds a single still image. A separate extension called APNG stores animated frames in a PNG file, and it is supported by most modern browsers, though not by every image tool.
What is the meaning of PNG?
"PNG" (noun) means an image format that stores a picture without losing any detail and can make parts of the image transparent, commonly used for logos, screenshots and graphics with sharp edges.
