Incunabulum: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term comes from the Latin 'incunabula,' meaning 'swaddling clothes' or 'cradle,' symbolizing the beginnings of printed books.
• It reflects the time when books were in their infancy, just like a baby in a cradle.

Historical Context

• These books were produced during the late 15th century, coinciding with the invention of the printing press by Johannes Gutenberg.
• The first printed incunabulum is considered to be the Gutenberg Bible, made around 1455, which revolutionized access to literature.

Cultural Impact

• Incunabula played a crucial role in the spread of humanism and the Renaissance, making knowledge more accessible to the public.
• They are highly valued by collectors and libraries, representing a significant phase in the history of literature and education.

Preservation and Study

• Many institutions focus on preserving incunabula due to their fragile nature, requiring special care and conditions.
• Scholars analyze incunabula not just for their content but also for their printing techniques and the evolution of typography.

Modern Relevance

• Today's digital age echoes the revolution of incunabula, as e-books and online resources democratize knowledge.
• The appreciation for such early printed works has prompted renewed interest in book history and bibliophilism among modern audiences.

At position #42,087, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.

• ...
• 42084 cerebra
• 42085 purger
• 42086 invigilator
• 42087 incunabulum
• 42088 lucratively
• 42089 avariciously
• 42090 applauders
• ...