CATCHWORDS Meaning and
Definition
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Catchwords refer to the abbreviated words or phrases that appear at the bottom of a page in a book or document, typically indicating the first word or phrase on the following page. These catchwords serve as a quick reference or indexing tool for readers, providing a clue to the content of the upcoming page. They are commonly placed in a horizontal line or column on the lower margin of the page, aligned with the left edge or center.
The purpose of catchwords is to aid readers in navigating through a text and locating specific information efficiently. By previewing catchwords, readers can quickly determine the subject matter of the next page and decide whether to continue reading or skip to a different section. Catchwords are especially useful in lengthy or complex documents, such as legal texts, scholarly books, or reference materials.
Catchwords were more widely employed in older print formats, such as manuscripts, early printed books, and newspapers. However, they are still commonly found in some contemporary publications, particularly in legal documents, statistical reports, and catalogs. In the digital age, catchwords can also be found in e-books or online publications, although their practicality may be diminished due to the ease of digital search functions.
In summary, catchwords are abbreviated indicators found at the bottom of a page, providing a preview of the content on the following page to assist readers in quickly locating information and navigating through a text.
Common Misspellings for CATCHWORDS
Etymology of CATCHWORDS
The word "catchwords" originated from Old English, specifically from the combination of two words: "catch" and "words".
"Catch" comes from the Old English word "ceačian", which means to "catch" or "grasp". It evolved from the Proto-Germanic word "khatjaną" and can be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root "gad-" meaning "to take" or "to capture".
"Words" comes from the Old English word "word", which refers to a spoken or written expression of thought. This word descends from the Proto-Germanic word "wurdan", originating from the Proto-Indo-European root "were-", meaning "speak" or "say".
Similar spelling words for CATCHWORDS
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