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Decapitalize Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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decapitalize

[dɪˈkæpɪtəˌlaɪz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

writing

To convert the first letter of a word from uppercase to lowercase.

Synonyms

lowercase, uncapitalize.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
decapitalize

Used in computing and typography, specifically to describe converting the first letter of a word from uppercase to lowercase.

  • Please decapitalize the first letter of these sentences for consistency.
  • To decapitalize all headings, use the following script.
lowercase

Commonly used in both general conversation and technical contexts to describe all characters being in lower case form. It is the most universally recognized term.

  • Make sure to write your email address in lowercase letters.
  • The password should be in lowercase.
uncapitalize

Often used interchangeably with 'decapitalize', commonly in contexts related to changing text formats in software or document editing.

  • You need to uncapitalize the first word of each sentence.
  • This tool allows you to uncapitalize text.

Examples of usage

  • Don't forget to decapitalize the first letter of the sentence.
  • The function will automatically decapitalize the input string.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Linguistics

  • Changing letter cases affects meanings in languages, as proper nouns typically begin with a capital letter.
  • In coding and data processing, the distinction between uppercase and lowercase can be critical for function execution.
  • There are language rules for capitalization that vary across cultures, such as the treatment of titles or addresses.

Technology

  • In programming, decapitalizing can be essential for functions that are case-sensitive, affecting data interpretation.
  • Text conversion tools often include functions to automatically decapitalize words for formatting consistency.
  • Social media platforms sometimes automatically decapitalize usernames to standardize user identity display.

Education

  • Teaching children the difference between uppercase and lowercase letters is a fundamental part of early literacy development.
  • In English, many students learn to use capital letters to signify the start of sentences or important names, making decapitalization an important learning step.
  • Decapitalization helps in understanding tone and relevance; for example, all capital letters can imply shouting.

Pop Culture

  • The rise of texting and messaging has led to playful uses of capitalization, including intentional decapitalization for humorous effect.
  • Certain online communities adopt styles that embrace lowercase text to convey a laid-back attitude.
  • Famous brands use capitalization strategically, and changing the case can alter brand perception in marketing campaigns.

Origin of 'decapitalize'

Main points about word origin

  • The prefix 'de-' comes from Latin, meaning 'removal' or 'reversal', while 'capitalize' relates to the word 'capital', meaning 'head'.
  • The transformation emphasizes taking away the 'head' or 'importance' of the letter.
  • The concept of capitalization in writing can be traced back to ancient manuscripts where certain letters were embellished to highlight importance.

The term 'decapitalize' is derived from the prefix 'de-' meaning to reverse an action, and 'capitalize' which refers to making the first letter of a word uppercase. The concept of decapitalization is commonly used in computer programming and text processing to modify the case of letters.

See also: capitalize, uncapitalize, undercapitalize.