Compact Disc Read-Only Memory (CD-ROM) is a type of optical disc that is commonly used for data storage and software installation. Synonyms for CD-ROM include Optical Disc Drive, LaserDisc, and Compact Disc. Optical Disc Drive is a general term used to describe any device that can read and write optical discs, including CD-ROMs, DVDs, and Blu-Ray discs. LaserDisc is a synonym that is commonly used for older optical disc formats, but is not typically used to refer to CD-ROMs. Compact Disc is another synonym, but is often used interchangeably with CD-ROM. CD-ROMs are also sometimes referred to by the acronym CD, although this term can be used to describe any type of compact disc.