MP3

What Does MP3 Mean in a Text?

The Quick Answer

MP3 (MPEG-1 or MPEG-2 Audio Layer III) is an audio coding format for digital audio which uses a form of lossy data compression.

More Detail...

This compression works by reducing the accuracy of certain parts of sounds that are considered to be beyond the audible range of most people in order to save data (commonly known as perceptual coding), while recording the audible part in a full and efficient manner. MP3 is a common audio format for consumer audio streaming or storage, and it has become the standard digital audio compression format used for the transfer and playback of music on most digital audio players.

Image for MP3

When I write MP3, I mean this:

The image shows an MP3 device with an MP3 music file playing.

Summary of Key Points

"MPEG Layer 3 (audio file)" is, by far, the most common meaning for MP3 when it is used in a text. (Bear in mind that it could have another meaning if used in a different context.)

MP3
Definition:	MPEG Layer 3 (audio file)
Type:	Abbreviation
Guessability:	2: Quite easy to guess
Typical Users:	Specialists

Examples of MP3 in Sentences

Here is an example of MP3 in a conversation:

Charlie: Do you want me to send you the Paloma Faith album you like?
Jordan: Yes please! That would be great. Can you make sure its MP3? I don't have iTunes.
Charlie: I know. I was going to send it as MP3 anyway.

An Academic Look at MP3

MP3 is an initialism abbreviation. This means it is pronounced using its individual letters (i.e., Em Pee Three). Initialisms contrast with acronyms, which are spoken like words.