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Incunabulum Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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incunabulum

[ɪnˈkjuːnəˌbjuːləm ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

historical printing

An incunabulum is a book printed before 1501, during the infancy of the printing press. These works are significant as they mark the transition from hand-copied manuscripts to printed texts, making literature more accessible. Incunabula are often highly valued by collectors and bibliophiles because they provide insight into early printing techniques and the cultural landscape of the time.

Synonyms

early printed book, pre-1501 book.

Examples of usage

  • The library has a collection of rare incunabula.
  • Studying incunabula reveals much about early literacy.
  • Many incunabula are preserved in special conditions due to their age.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

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.

Origin of 'incunabulum'

Main points about word origin

  • 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.

The term 'incunabulum' derives from the Latin word 'incunabula,' meaning 'swaddling clothes' or 'cradle.' It specifically refers to the earliest stage of printed books, literally meaning 'in the cradle.' The use of the term became common in the 19th century among bibliographers and book collectors to denote works produced in the formative years of the printing press. The invention of the movable type printing press by Johannes Gutenberg in the mid-15th century allowed for the mass production of texts, which significantly influenced the dissemination of knowledge and culture. As a result, incunabula represents a crucial stage in the history of literature, making it a subject of study for historians, book dealers, and bibliophiles. The preservation and appreciation of incunabula also reflect the societal values placed on early printed works, which often bear historical significance and artistic merit.

Word Frequency Rank

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.