plural GIFs
: a computer file format for the compression and storage of visual digital information
also : an image or video stored in this format
Using emoji, emoticons and GIFs in a texted conversation instantly signals the difference between sincerity and a joke or sarcasm. Jenna Wortham
see also reaction gif

Examples of GIF in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Since Mizzou had a late chance to win the three-point game, the lack of a touchdown on this GIF’s drive was nearly critical. Alex Kirshner, New York Times, 12 Oct. 2025 Kardashian's mother, Kris Jenner, seemingly gave her stamp of approval, commenting with a GIF of herself that showed Jenner staring off chicly in a white button-down shirt and aviator sunglasses. Edward Segarra, USA Today, 6 Oct. 2025 Its approach to comedy is ripped straight from the world of musical cast parties and improv shows, with every performer doing their best to turn every line into a GIF-able burst of wholesome self-deprecation. Christian Zilko, IndieWire, 3 Oct. 2025 Umanmielen responded with a GIF of a smiling, but famously blind, Stevie Wonder. Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 25 Sep. 2025 Not the point of the scene or the possibility of my body, a spectacle, living in a corner of the internet, infinitely humpin’ on a GIF that sixteen-year-olds can use in a group chat. Sophie Ansari, Vulture, 25 Sep. 2025 Carr, who apparently reacted to Kimmel's suspension last week by sending a GIF of TV characters doing a celebratory dance to a journalist, yesterday described his role at the FCC as that of a dispassionate arbiter. Jon Brodkin, ArsTechnica, 23 Sep. 2025 Alpine posted a funny GIF on X after Sainz stopped by. Saajan Jogia, MSNBC Newsweek, 19 Sep. 2025 In response, Carr tweeted a GIF of Jack Nicholson nodding in what appeared to be confirmation. Mikelle Street, Them., 18 Sep. 2025

Word History

Etymology

graphics interchange format

First Known Use

1987, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of GIF was in 1987

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“GIF.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/GIF. Accessed 17 Oct. 2025.

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