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.
Another one used a GIF from Dragon Ball to express their feelings about the situation. Brian Mazique, Forbes.com, 25 July 2025 In slide four of this next GIF, Joao Pedro runs off Nico Gonzalez, while in slide six Gundogan is level with his man but is not able to track him the whole way back to the City penalty area. Thom Harris, New York Times, 24 July 2025 The detachable side-screens can be uploaded with stills, short GIF loops and text templates, enabling TikTokers to flash their handle or even a QR code. Mark Sparrow, Forbes.com, 8 July 2025 Hill also used the GIF with a simple happy, yet crying emoji. James Brizuela, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 June 2025 From the tobacco spitting to the bicep popping – what action-movie fan hasn't used that handshake GIF with Arnie and the inimitable Carl Weathers? Brian Truitt, USA Today, 7 June 2025 One set of instructions demanded a JPEG, while another indicated that PNG and GIF files would also be accepted. Amanda Chicago Lewis, Harpers Magazine, 29 Apr. 2025 The camera app presents a number of camera modes – night, video, picture, beauty, 108M, portrait, panorama, a GIF maker, macro, slow-mo, QR reader, and monochrome. Paul Ridden may 19, New Atlas, 19 May 2025 Among the output choices are GIF, PDF, PNG, SVG, and WebP—a generous selection. PC Magazine, 14 May 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 20 Aug. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on GIF

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!