SETTING TYPE Meaning and
Definition
-
Setting type refers to the process of arranging movable type characters, such as letters, numbers, and symbols, in a composing stick or typesetting machine to create printed text. It is an essential skill in the field of letterpress printing, which was commonly used before the introduction of digital printing technology.
In the setting type process, individual metal or wooden type characters are selected from a case containing various sizes and styles of typefaces, also known as fonts. These individual characters are then arranged in a line in the composing stick or on the type bed of the typesetting machine. The characters are set in a mirror image as they will be printed in reverse.
Setting type requires careful attention to detail and precision, as each character must be selected and arranged accurately to avoid errors in the final printed output. The process involves a combination of technical knowledge, manual dexterity, and a keen eye for aligning the characters evenly.
Once the type is set, it can be locked into a chase or a frame to create a complete page layout. The locked type can then be inked and pressed against paper or other printing surfaces to transfer the image in a process called letterpress printing.
With the advent of modern digital printing, the practice of setting type by hand has become less common, but it still holds historical and aesthetic significance in the world of design and fine printing.
Common Misspellings for SETTING TYPE
- aetting type
- zetting type
- xetting type
- detting type
- eetting type
- wetting type
- swtting type
- sstting type
- sdtting type
- srtting type
- s4tting type
- s3tting type
- serting type
- sefting type
- segting type
- seyting type
- se6ting type
- se5ting type
- setring type
- setfing type
Etymology of SETTING TYPE
The word "setting type" originated from the printing industry, specifically referring to the process of arranging individual metal or wooden letters in a composing stick to form words, sentences, and paragraphs for printing.
The etymology of the term can be broken down as follows:
1. Setting: In this context, "setting" refers to the act of arranging or putting something in order. It comes from the Old English word "settian", meaning "to put in place" or "to fix".
2. Type: The word "type" has multiple definitions and origins. In the printing context, "type" refers to the individual, reusable letters or characters used to create text. It traces back to the Latin word "typus", meaning "figure" or "impression", which came from the Greek word "typos" with the same meaning.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
