HARDCOPY Meaning and
Definition
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Hard copy, also commonly written as "hardcopy", refers to a physical or printed version of a document, file, or information that can be physically touched and manipulated. It is the tangible manifestation of data or information that is typically held in an electronic form. Hard copies are often used as a means of distributing and storing information in a physical format, thereby allowing individuals to access, read, analyze, or share information without the need for electronic devices.
In the context of computer technology, hard copies are usually generated through the process of printing, where data from a computer or digital source is transferred onto paper or other physical mediums. This process involves translating the electronic or digital information into a format that can be printed by a printer.
Hard copies offer several advantages over digital counterparts. They can provide a reliable and permanent means of archiving or preserving information, reducing the reliance on electronic storage systems that may be prone to data loss or corruption. Additionally, hard copies enable individuals to review and edit information without the need for specialized technology or software.
However, hard copies also have drawbacks, such as the higher cost of production, storage limitations, and environmental concerns related to paper usage. With the increasing advances in digital technology, hard copies are becoming less prevalent, as many organizations and individuals are opting for digital formats as a more efficient and eco-friendly means of sharing and storing information.
Etymology of HARDCOPY
The word "hardcopy" is derived from the combination of two words: "hard" and "copy".
- "Hard" originally comes from the Old English word "heard", which means "solid" or "tough". It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "harduz", meaning "having difficulty". Over time, "hard" expanded in meaning to refer to something that is not easily changed or destroyed.
- "Copy" comes from the Old French word "copie", which ultimately originates from the Latin word "copia". "Copia" means "abundance" or "plenty". In the context of writing, it came to mean reproducing a document, text, or image.
Therefore, when combined, "hardcopy" refers to a solid or physical reproduction of a document, as opposed to digital or electronic versions.
Similar spelling words for HARDCOPY
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