Correct spelling for the English word "troff" is [tɹˈɒf], [tɹˈɒf], [t_ɹ_ˈɒ_f] (IPA phonetic alphabet).
Troff is a command-driven text formatting language used for typesetting documents and reports in UNIX-like systems. It stands for "typesetter roff," which reflects its purpose as a program designed to produce formatted output for typesetting. Originally developed in Bell Labs during the 1970s, troff has since become a powerful tool for generating high-quality printed documents.
Troff uses a set of predefined macros and commands to format text, providing users with extensive control over the appearance of their documents. With its ability to handle complex document structures, troff is widely used for creating technical manuals, articles, and other publications requiring precise typesetting.
Users create troff documents by specifying a sequence of commands, each designated by a period (.) at the beginning of a line. These commands determine actions such as font selection, paragraph formatting, page layout, and inclusion of graphics or tables. Troff also supports the use of macros, which are user-defined strings of commands that simplify the formatting process and enhance document consistency.
Troff documents are typically created and edited in plain text, allowing for easy editing using basic text editors. Once the document is complete, it is processed by the troff program, which generates a formatted output in various formats, including PostScript or PDF, depending on the intended use or destination device.
In summary, troff is a versatile text formatting language used in UNIX-like systems for creating documents with precise control over formatting. It has become an essential tool for creating professional-looking publications.
The word "troff" is derived from the Old English word "trōh", which meant "trough" or "container". It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "truz", meaning "vessel" or "bowl". The term eventually evolved to "trogh" in Middle English and then became "troff" in Modern English.