LONDON GAZETTE Meaning and
Definition
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The London Gazette is an official publication of the United Kingdom government, first published in 1665. It serves as the official newspaper of record for the British government and is recognized as the oldest continuously published newspaper in the country. The Gazette is published by the Stationery Office on behalf of Her Majesty's Stationery Office (HMSO), with its headquarters in London.
The primary function of the London Gazette is to publish official notices and notifications related to the British government. These may include legal notices, government appointments, bankruptcies, insolvencies, and various corporate and personal announcements. It acts as a vital source of information for the public, lawyers, businesses, and various organizations.
The London Gazette is recognized for its accuracy, reliability, and authenticity, making it the official source of information for legal and administrative purposes. It plays a crucial role in ensuring transparency and accountability in the operations of the British government, as well as facilitating public access to important announcements and developments.
In addition to its print publication, the London Gazette also provides an online platform, enabling wider accessibility and searchability of its contents. The online database allows users to browse and search through historical editions, providing a valuable resource for researchers and historians.
Overall, the London Gazette serves as an indispensable tool for disseminating official information and promoting transparency within the British government, making it an essential publication for keeping citizens, legal practitioners, and businesses informed about important announcements and events.
Etymology of LONDON GAZETTE
The word "London Gazette" has a straightforward etymology.
The term "London" refers to the capital city of the United Kingdom. The word itself comes from the Old English word "Lundene" or "Lundenwic", which likely means "the place at the unfordable river" (referencing the Thames River, which runs through the city).
The word "Gazette" has its origins in the Italian word "gazzetta", which was a Venetian coin used to purchase news sheets. Over time, the term "gazetta" came to refer to a news publication. In the 17th century, the word "gazette" was borrowed into English and specifically referred to government newspapers or official publications.
Thus, the term "London Gazette" refers to a publication originated in London, serving as an official news outlet or government newspaper.
