EDGEWEAR Meaning and
Definition
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Edgewear refers to the damage or deterioration that occurs on the edges of an object, typically a book, due to usage, handling, or storage. It often manifests as frayed, worn, or scuffed edges that have been subject to friction, rubbing, or pressure. This term is commonly used to describe the wear and tear seen on the pages, covers, or corners of books, though it may also apply to other objects with vulnerable or exposed edges.
In the context of books, edgewear may result from frequent page turning, shelf contact, or mishandling. It can be exacerbated by factors such as low-quality materials, improper storage, or excessive use. Edgewear can occur on hardcover or paperback books, affecting the cover boards, dust jackets, or the actual pages. This type of wear is often an aesthetic concern, making the book appear older or less valuable, but it can also compromise the structural integrity of the object over time.
Edgewear may be more prevalent in antique or well-used books, where the edges have been exposed to many years of handling. Book collectors and sellers may assess the extent of edgewear when determining the condition or value of a book. To mitigate edgewear in books, protective measures such as book jackets, covers, or specialized storage methods can be employed. Regular maintenance, careful handling, and gentle cleaning are also important practices in minimizing and addressing edgewear in books and other delicate objects.
Etymology of EDGEWEAR
The word "edgewear" is a compound noun composed of the words "edge" and "wear".
The noun "edge" is derived from the Old English word "ecg", which had the same meaning and can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "*agjo". This word is related to the Old Norse word "egg", Middle High German word "egge", and the Gothic word "aggs", all meaning "edge" or "blade".
The verb "wear" comes from the Old English word "werian", meaning "to carry or have on one's person". It has Indo-European roots, deriving from the Proto-Germanic word "*wazaną".
Therefore, the etymology of "edgewear" is quite straightforward, with the word combining elements related to the edge or blade and the act of carrying or having something on one's person.
