Flexi disc is a thin, flexible record made of vinyl or other plastic materials. The spelling of "flexi disc" follows the English spelling system, where "flexi" has two syllables and is pronounced as /ˈflɛksi/. The letter "x" represents the sound /ks/ in this word, and "i" is used to indicate the short vowel sound /ɪ/. The spelling of "disc" is also typical of English, where the letter "c" represents the sound /s/ when followed by "i," "e," or "y."
A flexi disc, also known as a flexi record or a phonosheet, can be defined as a thin, flexible vinyl disc that can be played on a turntable. It is a type of phonograph record that is made from a flexible material, typically a thin sheet of vinyl. The flexibility of the disc allows it to be bent or folded without causing damage, making it lightweight and portable compared to conventional vinyl records.
The flexi disc is typically smaller in diameter than a standard LP record, and it can vary in size, ranging from 5 to 8 inches in diameter. It is also thinner than a traditional record, making it more prone to warping and damage if mishandled. Due to the lightweight nature and relatively inexpensive production process, flexi discs are often used as promotional items, bonus content, or giveaways with magazines, books, or other products.
To play a flexi disc, it is necessary to place it on a turntable and apply a stylus or needle to the grooves. The sound quality of a flexi disc is generally lower compared to standard vinyl records, as the flexible material and thinner grooves are not as capable of capturing the full audio fidelity. Despite this limitation, flexi discs have gained popularity throughout the years due to their unique form and collectability.
The etymology of the word "flexi disc" can be traced back to the combination of two terms: "flexible" and "disc".
1. Flexible: The term "flexible" originated from the Latin word "flectere", which means "to bend" or "to curve". This word passed through Old French and Middle English before being incorporated into Modern English. It refers to the quality of being easily bent or adaptable.
2. Disc: The word "disc" comes from the Latin word "discus", which referred to a round, flat object like a circular plate or a quoit (a ring-shaped object used in a throwing game). This Latin word was borrowed into Old English as "disc", and it has remained largely unchanged in its English form.