pixel

noun pix·el \ ˈpik-səl , -ˌsel \

Definition of pixel

1 :any of the small discrete elements that together constitute an image (as on a television or computer screen)

2 :any of the detecting elements of a charge-coupled device used as an optical sensor

See pixel defined for English-language learners

Recent Examples of pixel from the Web

Even a few pixels difference between the watermarks in each image would be enough to throw off the algorithm.

— avery thompson, Popular Mechanics, "Google Figured Out How to Erase Watermarks Like Magic," 18 Aug. 2017
But here and there, clusters of blue pixels appear—signs of moisture in the ground.

— lizzie wade, Science | AAAS, "Most archaeologists think the first Americans arrived by boat. Now, they’re beginning to prove it," 10 Aug. 2017
Looking at them now evokes the quiet charm of early internet pixel art; just a few dozen points strung together, and a high-heeled shoe or a rocking horse appears.

— clio chang, New Republic, "The Emoji Deserves Better Than The Emoji Movie," 31 July 2017
The idea is to see more thing in HD, to see the pixels in every moment.

— billboard argentina, Billboard, "Argentine Rockers Indios 'Left Comfort Zone' For 'Asfalto' Sophomore LP: Interview," 26 July 2017
To find the secret image, the string of ones and zeroes should be treated as black and white pixels and arranged in a certain way, so that the alien pops into view.

— marina koren, The Atlantic, "How the Internet Deciphered a Fake Alien Message," 17 July 2017
Otherwise known as 4K. The highest standard for pixels and clarity.

— andrew goble, GQ, "The TV Buying Guide for People Who Want a Less-Crappy TV," 15 July 2017
As a result, the HD and 4K modes' default presentation sometimes looks flat and awkward, which is more exposed without the blurrier, 640x480 pixel resolution of the original.

— sam machkovech, Ars Technica, "StarCraft Remastered devs unveil price, explain how much is being rebuilt," 30 June 2017
The 1,280-by-800 pixel resolution screen is notably less sharp than those found on pricier alternatives, though that's to be expected of a sub-$100 tablet.

— lisa eadicicco, Time, "The 5 Best Tablets You Can Buy Right Now," 30 June 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'pixel.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Origin and Etymology of pixel

pix + element

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First Known Use: 1965

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PIXEL Defined for English Language Learners

pixel

noun

Definition of pixel for English Language Learners

: any one of the very small dots that together form the picture on a television screen, computer monitor, etc.

PIXEL Defined for Kids

pixel

noun pix·el \ ˈpik-səl \

Definition of pixel for Students

:any of the small parts that make up an image (as on a computer or television screen)

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