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A metafile is a file that stores multiple types of data, typically a set of drawing instructions and metadata, rather than just the final image data. This format is especially common for vector graphics, where it contains commands for how to draw shapes, lines, and text, and can also embed raster images (bitmaps). Examples include Windows Metafiles (.WMF, .EMF) and Computer Graphics Metafiles (CGM).

Key characteristics

Instructions and metadata: A metafile stores a sequence of records that describe how to create an image or other data, along with descriptive metadata.

Device independence: Many metafiles are designed to be device-independent, meaning they can be displayed correctly on different devices (printers, screens) by using the underlying drawing commands.

Scalability: Because they are based on drawing commands, vector metafiles can be scaled up or down without losing quality.

Versatility: While often used for graphics, the term can apply to other "container" files that hold various data types, such as archive files (ZIP) or multimedia files (MP4).