Pronunciation: [mˈasthɛdz] (IPA) 
Mastheads is spelled with two silent letters - "a" and "d" - making it a tricky word to spell. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is spelled /ˈmæstˌhɛdz/. The "a" and "d" letters are not pronounced, but the word is pronounced with the stress on the first syllable. The word mastheads is commonly used in journalism to refer to the name of a newspaper or magazine that appears at the top of the front page.
Mastheads, in the context of media and publishing, refer to the prominent pieces of text displayed at the top of a newspaper or magazine cover, or on a website homepage. They typically contain the name of the publication or website, along with its logo and sometimes additional information such as date, volume, issue number, or tagline. Mastheads are designed to instantly capture the attention of readers and establish the identity and brand of the publication or website.
In newspapers and magazines, mastheads are typically placed on the uppermost part of the front page, serving as an identifying feature. They are usually displayed in a bold and larger font size, encompassing the entire width of the page. Mastheads on websites, on the other hand, can vary in size and placement but are generally located at the top center or left corner of the homepage.
Apart from serving as a visual recognition tool, mastheads also convey important information about the publication, such as its credibility and reputation. They provide readers with a means of identifying the source of the content, ensuring transparency and accountability. Mastheads are essential in distinguishing one publication from another and are a key element in establishing the branding and visual identity of a media entity.
The word "masthead" has its roots in nautical terminology. It is derived from the Old English word "mæst" meaning "mast" (a tall vertical pole on a ship) and "heafod" meaning "head" (the topmost part). Originally, the term referred to the top part of a ship's mast, typically the area where flags or sails were hoisted or attached.
Over time, the meaning of "masthead" expanded to include the area near the top of a newspaper or magazine's front page, where the title of the publication, as well as important information like the date and edition, are displayed. The connection between the nautical masthead and the publication masthead is likely due to the prominence and visibility of both locations, as well as the hierarchical sense of importance associated with them.
