midi: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Medium (B2)Informal to neutral in fashion; technical in computing/music.
Quick answer
What does “midi” mean?
Of medium length or size.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
Of medium length or size; specifically, a skirt, dress, or coat that falls to the mid-calf, between the knee and ankle.
A general term for any product, file, or device of medium size or intermediate specification; in music, a standard protocol for connecting electronic musical instruments and computers.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Usage is largely identical. The fashion term is common in both varieties. The technical term (MIDI) is universal.
Connotations
In fashion, can imply a classic, sophisticated, or retro style. No significant difference in connotation between UK/US.
Frequency
Slightly more frequent in UK fashion media, but the difference is negligible.
Grammar
How to Use “midi” in a Sentence
wear a + midi + [garment]connect via + MIDIrecord + in + MIDIplay + a + MIDI + fileVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “midi” in a Sentence
noun
British English
- She looked elegant in a pleated midi.
- The studio is equipped with a new MIDI interface.
American English
- That midi is perfect for the office.
- All the parts were sequenced using MIDI.
adjective
British English
- The midi silhouette is very flattering.
- He uses a MIDI controller for his live sets.
American English
- Midi skirts are back in style this season.
- Check the MIDI settings on your synthesizer.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in retail/fashion contexts describing product lines.
Academic
Rare in general academia; common in music technology, digital humanities, or fashion history papers.
Everyday
Common in fashion discussions ('I'm looking for a midi dress'). The technical term is everyday for musicians/producers.
Technical
Primary context for 'MIDI' as the digital communication protocol for music equipment.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “midi”
Neutral
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “midi”
- Using 'midi' as a noun for a person (incorrect).
- Writing 'MIDI' in lowercase when referring to the technical standard.
- Pronouncing 'MIDI' as /ˈmaɪdi/ instead of /ˈmɪdi/.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
In fashion, it is neutral. 'MIDI' (in caps) is a formal technical term.
Yes, but less commonly. It can informally describe medium-sized items (e.g., a midi bowl). Its primary other use is the technical 'MIDI'.
The direct opposite in terms of length is a 'mini' skirt (very short) or a 'micro' skirt. A 'maxi' skirt (ankle-length) is also a contrasting length.
Yes, both pronounce it as /ˈmɪdi/.
Of medium length or size.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'MIDI' as being in the 'MIDdle' of mini and maxi skirt lengths.
Conceptual Metaphor
LENGTH IS HEIGHT (a midi skirt is 'mid-level' on the body).
Practice
Quiz
What does 'MIDI' stand for in music technology?