1 B2 neutral
To mark the shape, dimensions, or position of something on a surface using tape.
"Before buying new furniture, they taped out the dimensions of the sofa on the living room floor."
separable
tape out
C1 neutral separable transitive
To mark the outline or dimensions of something using tape, or (technical) to complete and send a semiconductor chip design for manufacturing.
In plain English
To use tape to show the shape or size of something on the floor or a surface, or (in tech) to finish designing a computer chip.
What does "tape out" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 C1 idiomatic neutral
(Semiconductor/Electronics technical) To finalise a chip or circuit design and submit it to a manufacturer for production.
"The engineering team celebrated after they taped out their first processor design."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To use tape to draw out the outline of something.
Actually means
To use tape to show the shape or size of something on the floor or a surface, or (in tech) to finish designing a computer chip.
Usage tip
In everyday contexts, commonly used in construction, interior design, or theatre to mark where something should be placed. In the semiconductor industry, 'tape out' is a major milestone where the chip design is finalised and sent to a manufacturer. The technical meaning is jargon.
Words that pair with "tape out"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
floor plan dimensions chip design room stage layout
How to conjugate "tape out"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
tape out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
tapes out
he/she/it
Past simple
taped out
yesterday
Past participle
taped out
have + pp
-ing form
taping out
continuous
Hear "tape out" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "tape out" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
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