The spelling of the word "dog earing" can be confusing due to the pronunciation of the word "ear". In IPA phonetic transcription, the correct spelling and pronunciation would be /ˈdɒɡ ˈɪərɪŋ/. This refers to the act of folding down the corner of a page in a book, resembling the floppy ears of a dog. Despite the seemingly simple nature of this action, "dog earing" has become a debated topic in the book community, with some considering it a form of book abuse.
Dog-earing refers to the act of folding down the corner of a book page, usually near the top, as a means of marking the reader's progress or flagging a specific page for future reference. This term derives from the resemblance of the folded page corner to a dog's ear.
Dog-earing is a common practice among avid readers or individuals who frequently reference books since it allows for quick identification of specific pages or passages. It serves as a visual reminder of the reader's place in a book, especially when they want to resume reading from where they left off. By slightly folding the corner of a page, readers can create a physical cue that helps them easily locate the desired page, rather than relying on bookmarks or other external tools.
Though dog-earing can be a convenient technique, it is not always popular or admired by book purists who advocate for treating books with care and respect. Those against dog-earing argue that it damages the book's pages and disfigures its aesthetics. Bookmarks or other alternatives, such as sticky notes or ribbons, are often suggested as more respectful alternatives to dog-earing.
Overall, dog-earing is a personal choice made by readers to ensure their place in a book. It is both a practical shortcut and a point of contention among book enthusiasts who debate the best methods for marking pages efficiently while preserving the physical condition of a book.
The word "dog earing" is derived from the term "dog-ear", which refers to the act of bending down the corner of a book page as a bookmark. This term originated from the resemblance of the folded corner to the ear of a dog. The practice of dog-earing has been around for centuries, and the word itself first appeared in written form in the late 17th century. It has since become a commonly used term to describe this action.