The word "running titles" refers to the headings that appear at the top of pages in a book, which typically include the book's title and chapter number. The spelling of this term is fairly straightforward, with "running" being pronounced as /ˈrʌnɪŋ/ and "titles" as /ˈtaɪtlz/. The use of the -ing suffix in "running" reflects the present participle tense of the verb "run", while the -s at the end of "titles" indicates pluralization. Together, the term accurately describes this common publishing convention.
Running titles, also known as headers or running heads, refer to the brief titles or phrases that appear at the top of each page of a printed document. They typically provide a concise indication of the content contained on each page, thereby assisting readers in navigating through the document. The purpose of running titles is to offer context or orientation to the reader, helping them quickly identify the page's subject matter or section.
Running titles can be found in a wide range of printed materials, such as books, journals, reports, magazines, or other lengthy documents. They are usually positioned at the top of the page, either centered or aligned with the outer margin, and are smaller in font size compared to the main text.
These titles are often used to reinforce the structure of the document, enabling readers to spot specific sections or chapters easily. While they commonly include the document's title or the name of the book in smaller font, they can also include the chapter or section title, author's name, publication date, or other relevant information. In addition to aiding readers in navigation, running titles can contribute to the overall professional appearance and organization of the printed material.
The design and content of running titles can vary depending on the publication style, document type, or publisher's guidelines. Ultimately, running titles serve as bibliographic markers, enabling readers to quickly locate desired pages or sections within a document.
The term "running titles" originates from the combination of two separate word origins:
1. "Running" comes from the verb "run", which dates back to Old English (rinnan), and has its roots in Proto-Germanic (rinnaną). The word "run" referred to moving swiftly or quickly.
2. "Titles" comes from the Middle English word "title", which derived from the Old English "titul" meaning an inscription or heading. "Title" can be traced back to the Latin word "titulus", also referring to an inscription or label.
Therefore, when the two words are combined, "running titles" refer to the inscriptions or headings that swiftly move across the top or bottom of each page in a book, usually displaying the book's title, chapter name, or the author's name.