Pronunciation: [hˈatnə͡ʊt] (IPA) 
The word "hatnote" is spelled with two syllables, /ˈhæt.nəʊt/. The first syllable is pronounced with the short "a" sound, as in "cat." The second syllable starts with the "n" sound, followed by the long "o" sound and another "t" sound. A hatnote is a type of note that appears at the top of an article or page to provide additional information or clarification. It is commonly used in publishing and journalism.
A hatnote is a short note or remark that appears at the top of an article or page, usually in smaller font or as a disclaimer or clarification. It provides contextual information or directs the reader's attention to related topics, issues, or warnings before delving into the main content.
In the context of journalism and publishing, a hatnote acts as an introductory statement that may summarize or highlight the key points of the article. It sets the tone and prepares readers for what they can expect to find in the subsequent text. For instance, a news article about a recent political event may have a hatnote that briefly outlines the event's significance or its potential impact.
Additionally, hatnotes play a crucial role in encyclopedic or reference works. It can provide cross-references to other relevant articles within the same publication or direct readers to additional sources for further exploration. By doing so, hatnotes help readers navigate complex or interconnected topics and ensure a more comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.
Hatnotes also serve as a disclaimer when necessary, cautioning readers of potential biases, controversial aspects, or disputed information within the article. This is particularly important when handling sensitive or opinionated subjects to maintain transparency and journalistic integrity.
Overall, hatnotes serve as informative aids, guiding readers through articles, providing supplementary information, and facilitating a more nuanced understanding of the topic at hand.
The word "hatnote" is a combination of two parts: "hat" and "note".
The term "hat" in this context refers to a specific usage in publishing. In the early days of printing, printers would often place important information at the top of a page to make it stand out, resembling a literal hat on top of the text. Over time, this practice evolved into the concept of a "hat" being a distinct section or device used to highlight or draw attention to specific information.
The word "note" generally refers to a brief piece of writing containing information, comments, or explanations. In the context of publishing, a note is often used to provide additional clarification or context.
Therefore, the term "hatnote" combines these two elements to refer to a concise statement or message placed at the top of a page or section to provide an important piece of information or context.
