Pronunciation: [mˈad͡ʒəskjˌuːl] (IPA) 
Majuscule is spelled "ma-jus-cule." The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /məˈdʒʌskjuːl/. The "ma-" and "-cule" parts are easily recognizable, but the "-jus" part might cause some confusion. The "j" sound is pronounced as /dʒ/ in this word. The stress falls on the second syllable, which is indicated by the long /uː/ sound. Majuscule refers to uppercase letters in typography, calligraphy, or handwriting.
A majuscule refers to a capital letter or an uppercase character within a writing system. Derived from the Latin word "maiusculus," meaning "rather large," the term is primarily used in the realm of typography and calligraphy.
In writing systems, which include alphabets, abjads, and syllabaries, majuscules serve distinct purposes. They are typically larger in size and are often employed at the beginning of sentences and proper nouns. Majuscules are characterized by their heightened visual prominence and are employed to create visual contrast against the accompanying minuscule, or lowercase, letters. In some writing systems, such as the Latin alphabet, majuscules are also used for acronyms and abbreviations.
Majuscules possess unique characteristics, often defined by their precise and geometrical forms. Their design often includes noticeable thick and thin strokes, as well as serifs, which are small decorative flourishes. Although many early writings were entirely composed of majuscules, the introduction of minuscules led to the gradual formation of a distinct case system. In modern writing systems, such as the English alphabet, majuscules and minuscules coexist and contribute to the overall visual aesthetics and legibility of written communication.
Moreover, majuscules play a pivotal role in typography, serving as a basis for elaborate typographical designs and styles. They are often employed in headings, titles, and signage to enhance readability and create visual impact. Majuscules have been subject to various artistic interpretations throughout history, leading to the development of decorative letterforms and lettering systems.
The word "majuscule" comes from the Latin word "maiusculus", which is the diminutive form of "maior" meaning "greater" or "larger". The term was used in medieval Latin to describe the larger form of letters used in formal writings or inscriptions, as opposed to the smaller "minuscule" letters commonly used in everyday writing. The word eventually entered the French language as "majuscule", and subsequently, it was borrowed into English in the 17th century as a term for uppercase or capital letters.
