TechnologyAugust 15, 2026

pixelate

PIK-suh-layt

Definition

To obscure or hide details in an image by breaking them into larger, blurry squares so that specific identifiers cannot be easily recognized.

Etymology

The word is a back-formation from 'pixel,' which itself is a portmanteau created in the 1960s from 'picture' and 'element'.

In the news

The article suggests pixelating identifiable details in your personal photos as a privacy measure to prevent AI tools or strangers from using background information to track your location.

What to remove from photos before posting online

Read the full article ↗

Popular Science

Related words

automizes

To convert a process, task, or operation so that it is performed automatically by…

Technology

beamforming

A wireless networking technique that focuses a signal toward a specific user or device…

Technology

biomechanical

Relating to the mechanical laws and physical principles that govern the movement and…

Technology

chaser

A specialized cutting tool used to clean, restore, or cut the threads of a screw or bolt.

Technology

chipflation

The economic phenomenon of rising costs for electronic hardware caused specifically by…

Technology

coaxial

A type of electrical cable consisting of a central conductor, an insulating layer, and a…

Technology

Learn words like this every day

Meet new words every morning.

Newspoken pulls carefully chosen words from the day’s news — with clear definitions, context, and light review that makes them stick. Get it on your phone.