How Do You Spell COLOPHON?

Pronunciation: [kˈɒlɒfən] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "colophon" might seem tricky, but once you understand its origins, it becomes easier to spell. A colophon is a statement at the end of a book, describing its production details. The word comes from the Greek "kolophōn," meaning "summit" or "finishing touch." In IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced /ˈkɒləfɒn/, with stress on the second syllable. The tricky part is the "ph" sound, which is pronounced like an "f" in this case. But with practice, you'll soon be spelling "colophon" with confidence.

COLOPHON Meaning and Definition

1. A colophon is a brief description, statement, or logo that is traditionally placed at the end of a book, manuscript, or document. It provides information regarding the creation, production, or publishing of the work.

   Historically, the colophon served as a form of identification, offering details about the scribe, printer, or bookbinder responsible for the book's production. It often included the names and locations of the individuals or organizations involved, the date of publication, and any other relevant information. In some cases, it could also include technical specifications, such as the typeface or printer's mark used in the production of the book.

   In modern times, the colophon has evolved to serve broader purposes. It can include the name of the author, editor, or illustrator, as well as copyright information or acknowledgments. Additionally, it may include details about the book's design, production, or printing process, providing readers with insight into the creative and technical aspects of the publication.

   The colophon serves as a means of documenting important information about the work and its production, preserving a record of its origins for future reference. It aids in establishing the authenticity, credibility, and provenance of the book or document, ensuring that its production and authorship are properly attributed.

2. The device which formerly marked the conclusion of a book, and which contained the place and year of its publication.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for COLOPHON

• cocophony
• cologhn
• colosion
• dolphon
• coliphon
• colophin
• collophon
• colopon
• colophore
• Colophane
• colophone
• Colophonik
• Colorphob
• colushon
• Collaphon
• Clloyon

Etymology of COLOPHON

The word "colophon" derives from the Greek word "kolophṓn". In ancient Greek, "kolophṓn" referred to a summit or peak. Over time, it came to be associated with a small city located near the western coast of modern-day Turkey. The city of Colophon was known for its fine pottery and bronze work, and it became famous as a center of literature and learning in the ancient world.

In the context of publishing, the term "colophon" was first used during the era of early print books in Europe. Printers and publishers would often place a statement at the end of a book, usually on the final page or leaf, which provided various details about the production of the book itself. This statement would often include information about the printer, place and date of publication, typesetting, and decoration used in the book.

Similar spelling word for COLOPHON

• colophony.

Plural form of COLOPHON is COLOPHONS