Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Italicize Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

✏️
Add to dictionary

italicize

[ˌɪtəˈlaɪz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

text formatting

To italicize is to apply a style to text that slants the letters to the right. This style is often used to emphasize a word or phrase, making it stand out from regular text. Italics can also indicate titles of works such as books, movies, and artworks. In addition, italicization can denote foreign words or phrases within an English text.

Synonyms

lean, oblique, slant.

Examples of usage

  • She decided to italicize the book title in her essay.
  • To emphasize the word 'important', you should italicize it.
  • Many word processors have an option to italicize selected text quickly.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Typography

  • Italic fonts are slanted and often used for emphasis, like highlighting important titles or key terms in a text.
  • In typography, italics can change based on the design, with some styles appearing more decorative than others.
  • Many fonts have their own italicized version, but not all font styles necessarily include an italic form.

Communication

  • In digital communication, italics are used to express emotions or sarcasm, enhancing the meaning of a message.
  • Italics help distinguish between text types, such as emphasizing book titles versus using quotes for dialogue.
  • Understanding when to italicize can improve clarity and ensure readers grasp the writer's intent.

Art and Design

  • Artists often use italicized lettering in graphic designs to create a dynamic and modern look.
  • Emphasizing certain words in a visual arts project can guide viewers’ attention, similar to how italics work in writing.
  • Calligraphy techniques often incorporate slanted letters, merging the aesthetics of italics with artistic expression.

Technology

  • Most word processing programs allow users to easily italicize text with a simple keyboard shortcut (Ctrl + I for Windows, Command + I for Mac).
  • In web design, HTML uses the tag to denote italic text, showcasing how technology embraces typography.
  • The rise of digital communication has led to new contexts where italics are employed, such as text messaging and social media.

Origin of 'italicize'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'italic' comes from the Latin word 'italicus,' meaning 'Italian,' reflecting its origins in Italian Renaissance typography.
  • It was first used in print in the 1500s, designed by Aldus Manutius, a famous Venetian printer focused on elegant typography.
  • Italic type was originally created to save space on printed pages, allowing for more text to fit.

The word 'italicize' originates from the late 19th century, derived from the term 'italic', which refers to a style of typeface characterized by its sloping letters. The term 'italic' itself comes from the Italian 'italico', indicating that this style of font was first used in Italy. The use of italicized text became particularly popular with the advent of printing in the Renaissance period when printers began using different typefaces to provide emphasis and aesthetic variety in printed works. Over time, the practice of italicizing words became a standard convention in English and other languages, particularly for highlighting important information or distinguishing text within various forms of written communication.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,160, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.