SCREEN READER Meaning and
Definition
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A screen reader is an assistive technology tool designed to aid individuals with visual impairments in accessing and interpreting digital content. It is a software application that converts text displayed on a computer screen into synthesized speech or Braille output, enabling users with blindness or low vision to understand and navigate through graphical user interfaces (GUIs) and webpages.
Screen readers utilize text-to-speech synthesis or Braille display technologies to read aloud the information present on a screen, including text, icons, menus, buttons, and other graphical elements. By converting the visual content into auditory or tactile formats, users can access and interact with computers or mobile devices effectively.
Additionally, screen readers are equipped with various functionalities to enhance accessibility. These may include customizable voice settings, the ability to navigate through different levels of content, support for multiple languages, and the ability to skip repetitive elements on a webpage.
Screen readers are commonly used in conjunction with other accessibility tools and technologies, such as screen magnifiers or refreshable Braille displays, to provide a comprehensive solution for individuals with visual impairments. They play a crucial role in enabling equal access to information and the digital world for people who are blind or have limited vision, empowering them to independently navigate through applications, websites, documents, and other digital content.
Etymology of SCREEN READER
The word "screen reader" is a compound word derived from two separate terms: "screen" and "reader".
The term "screen" originates from the Old English word "scren", which referred to a partition or a protective barrier. Over time, "screen" also began to be associated with the image display on electronic devices, such as computer screens.
The word "reader" comes from the Middle English word "redere", which means someone who reads. This term ultimately traces back to the Old English word "rædere", which also meant a person who reads or interprets written texts.
When combined, "screen reader" refers to a software or device that interprets and reads aloud the text displayed on a screen, enabling individuals who are blind or have visual impairments to access and interact with digital content.
