Photocopier: meaning, definitions and examples
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photocopier
[ˈfəʊ.təʊˌkɒp.i.ər ]
Definition
office machine
A photocopier is a machine that makes paper copies of documents and other visual images quickly and cheaply. It works by using a bright light to make an exact replica of the original document on a sheet of paper.
Synonyms
Xerox machine, copier, copy machine.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| photocopier |
A formal term used in office settings to describe a machine that makes copies of documents.
|
| copier |
A common term used casually in workplaces to refer to a machine that duplicates documents.
|
| copy machine |
A more informal and general term, often used in everyday conversation.
|
| Xerox machine |
A brand-specific term that has become synonymous with photocopiers, but be aware it is a trademarked name.
|
Examples of usage
- The office has a new photocopier for making copies of important documents.
- She quickly ran the document through the photocopier to make extra copies for the meeting.
- I need to use the photocopier to duplicate these flyers for the event.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The first photocopier was invented in 1938 by Chester Carlson, who called the process 'xerography', which means 'dry writing'.
- The concept of making copies dates back to ancient China, where people used wooden blocks to print text and images before moving to more modern technologies.
Technology
- Modern photocopiers use laser technology to create high-quality copies quickly and efficiently, revolutionizing office work.
- Some photocopiers come with additional features, such as scanning and faxing capabilities, showing how technology has integrated multiple functions into one machine.
Cultural Impact
- Photocopiers changed the way information is shared in schools and businesses, making it easier to duplicate important documents.
- The ease of copying has raised questions about copyright and intellectual property, as it’s simpler to reproduce creative work without permission.
Science
- The process of photocopying is based on electrostatic charges, where light is used to transfer an image onto a medium like paper.
- Photocopiers initially relied on a chemical development process, which has now transitioned to digital technology for faster and cleaner results.
Economics
- The photocopier industry has influenced various economic sectors by reducing costs for printing and duplication, steering businesses towards more efficient practices.
- Companies often lease photocopiers instead of buying them, demonstrating a shift in how capital investments are approached in the tech domain.
Translations
Translations of the word "photocopier" in other languages:
🇵🇹 fotocopiadora
🇮🇳 फोटोकॉपी मशीन
🇩🇪 Kopiergerät
🇮🇩 mesin fotokopi
🇺🇦 копіювальний апарат
🇵🇱 kserokopiarka
🇯🇵 コピー機
🇫🇷 photocopieuse
🇪🇸 fotocopiadora
🇹🇷 fotokopi makinesi
🇰🇷 복사기
🇸🇦 آلة تصوير
🇨🇿 kopírka
🇸🇰 kopírka
🇨🇳 复印机
🇸🇮 fotokopirni stroj
🇮🇸 ljósritunarvél
🇰🇿 көшірме машинасы
🇬🇪 ფოტოკოპირების აპარატი
🇦🇿 fotokopi aparatı
🇲🇽 fotocopiadora