Brevier is a printing term referring to a type size between minion and bourgeois. Its IPA phonetic transcription is /ˈbrɛvɪə(r)/. The first syllable is similar to the word "breve," which means a symbol indicating a short vowel sound in music notation. The second syllable is pronounced like the word "ear," with stress on the first syllable. The final sound is the letter "r" in the British pronunciation, indicating a non-silent r-sound. Overall, brevier is a curious word associated with the world of printing and typography.
Brevier is a term that can be defined in different contexts. It can refer to a specific type of manuscript or printing format, and it can also have a religious connotation.
In the field of literature, a brevier is a manuscript or book format that is smaller in size than the standard quarto format. Breviers were commonly used throughout history, especially during the Middle Ages. They were characterized by their compact size, typically measuring around 6 inches in height. Breviers were often used for religious texts, poetry, or other compact literary works.
In the religious context, Brevier commonly refers to a form of prayer book used in Catholicism. The Brevier, also known as the Breviary, is a liturgical book that contains the prayers, psalms, and hymns to be recited by priests, monks, and nuns throughout the canonical hours of the day. It provides a structured format for communal or individual prayer based on the Liturgy of the Hours. The Brevier is organized into different sections corresponding to specific times of the day, such as morning, midday, evening, and night. It serves as a guide for those in religious orders to uphold their daily prayer obligations.
Overall, whether it refers to a manuscript format or a religious prayer book, the term brevier denotes a concise and compact form of literature or liturgical text.
Small printing-types.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "Brevier" has its origins in the Latin term "breviarius", which means "abridged" or "summarized". In medieval times, a breviarius referred to a book containing an abridged version of the Liturgy of the Hours, a set of prayers and psalms recited by clergy or religious communities at specific times throughout the day. The term later evolved to refer specifically to a breviary, a book or liturgical guide containing the prayers and readings for the daily office. Over time, the word "breviary" was adopted into various languages, including English, where it became "brevier". In contemporary usage, the term "brevier" typically refers to a small book or pocket-sized edition of a breviary.