Imprimatur Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
📜
imprimatur
[ɪmˈprɪməˌtʊr ]
Definition
approval, publishing
Imprimatur is a Latin term that means 'let it be printed.' It is a type of permission granted by a church authority for the publication of a book or other written work, signifying that it is free from doctrinal or moral error. The term has also come to refer more generally to any kind of official approval.
Synonyms
approval, endorsement, sanction.
Examples of usage
- The novel received the imprimatur of the editor, ensuring its publication.
- Before publication, the article was checked and received the necessary imprimatur.
- In many religious contexts, an imprimatur is required before a text can be circulated.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Context
- In the past, the Church often controlled what could be published, using the imprimatur to avoid heretical ideas.
- The practice became crucial during the Renaissance when printing became widespread.
- Certain governments would require imprimatur to prevent the spread of controversial materials.
Publishing Industry
- Modern publishing houses may still use a form of imprimatur to signal quality or trust.
- In academic publishing, an imprimatur may indicate that a manuscript meets scholarly standards.
- Authors often seek endorsements, akin to imprimatur, to gain credibility before publication.
Cultural Significance
- An imprimatur may symbolize authority and responsibility in literature and media.
- It reflects the ongoing tension between censorship and freedom of expression.
- In the arts, receiving an imprimatur can be an honor, often influencing public perception.
Modern Usage
- Today, some use 'imprimatur' metaphorically to describe any form of official endorsement.
- It's often seen in political contexts where organizations or individuals give their support to policies.
- The term may appear in various contexts, from social media approvals to product endorsements.
Origin of 'imprimatur'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Latin, meaning 'let it be printed.'
- It was originally used in the context of publishing religious texts.
- The term emphasizes the importance of knowing what is being printed and who allows it.
The term 'imprimatur' originates from the Latin phrase 'imprimere', meaning 'to print.' In the context of the Catholic Church in the 16th century, the term began to take on its specific meaning related to publishing and church authority. The formal approval from ecclesiastical authorities was intended to prevent the dissemination of heretical or objectionable materials. With time, its use extended beyond religious texts to include secular literature and academic works, symbolizing a broader validation or endorsement of content. As printing technology advanced, the imprimatur became an essential aspect of the publishing process, indicating that a work had been vetted and was deemed acceptable for public distribution.