A phonograph is a device invented in the late 19th century that plays recorded sound. It works by using a needle to read grooves on a rotating disc, known as a record. The sound vibrations are then amplified through a speaker, allowing people to listen to music or spoken words. Phonographs were the first machines to reproduce sound, leading to the development of modern audio technology. They played a significant role in the music industry and paved the way for later inventions like turntables and CD players. Today, phonographs are often appreciated as vintage collectibles.