Foolscap Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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foolscap
[ˈfuːlskæp ]
Definition
paper size
Foolscap is a size of writing or printing paper that is larger than A4. It typically measures about 8.5 by 13 inches. The term originates from the historical use of a watermarked paper that featured a fool's cap stamp.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He used foolscap for printing the official documents.
- The school required students to submit assignments on foolscap paper.
- Foolscap size is common in legal documents.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
History
- In 17th-century England, foolscap was favored by scholars and letter writers, playing a key role in education and communication.
- Legal documents, such as court papers, were commonly written on foolscap, making it a traditional choice in law.
Arts and Culture
- Foolscap has been used by artists and writers as a canvas for sketches, drafts, and ideas throughout history.
- The paper's size and texture allow it to stand out in creative works, making it a favorite among poets and playwrights.
Modern Usage
- Today, foolscap remains common in academic settings for essays and reports, promoting its legacy of knowledge sharing.
- Many businesses still use foolscap-sized paper for documents, reflecting its practicality in the modern office environment.
Technology
- With the advent of digital tools, electronic documents often mimic the foolscap size to maintain a traditional look in printouts.
- Despite digital trends, the classic size still influences the design of communication materials and stationery.
Origin of 'foolscap'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'foolscap' originates from the late 15th century and refers to the watermark that resembled a fool's cap, or jester's hat.
- Originally, foolscap was a specific type of paper made in the Netherlands, which was popularized in England.
The term 'foolscap' originates from the 17th century and refers to a type of paper that was initially marked with a watermark depicting a fool's cap. This particular image was probably based on depictions of jesters in medieval times, who often wore such caps as part of their costumes. The fool's cap became a way to indicate the paper's size and quality. Over time, 'foolscap' came to specifically denote a size of writing paper that generally measures approximately 8.5 by 13 inches, popular in various parts of the world. Although the exact dimensions can vary, foolscap is now widely recognized for its use in administrative and legal documents, often associated with a more traditional or formal presentation of written material. This paper size is considered to be larger than the more commonly used A4 size, making it suitable for draft documents, contracts, and other applications where more writing space is desired.