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Press Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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press

[prɛs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

printing

A machine used for printing, especially one that works by a process in which ink is transferred to paper or another material from a plate or block.

Synonyms

printing machine, printing press.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
press

Used to describe the action of applying pressure on something.

  • Press the button to start.
  • You need to press the fabric to remove the wrinkles.
printing machine

Refers to the mechanical device used for printing texts or images on paper.

  • The printing machine broke down, delaying the production.
  • She operates the printing machine at the factory.
printing press

Refers to the specific type of machine historically used for mass production of printed materials like newspapers and books.

  • The invention of the printing press revolutionized the spread of information.
  • He toured a museum to see an old printing press.

Examples of usage

  • The book was printed on an old-fashioned press.
  • The newspaper was printed using a high-speed press.
Context #2 | Noun

media

The news media; journalists viewed collectively as a profession.

Synonyms

journalism, media.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
press

Use 'press' when referring to the reporting and journalists collectively as a group or institution. It's often used when discussing the role or freedom of journalists.

  • The press has a vital role in democratic societies
  • The president held a press conference
media

Use 'media' to describe the various channels of communication that reach a large audience, including newspapers, television, radio, and the internet.

  • Social media has changed how we communicate
  • The media played a critical role in covering the disaster
journalism

Use 'journalism' when talking about the profession or practice of writing for newspapers, magazines, or news websites, or creating news in other media such as television or radio.

  • She studied journalism in college
  • Investigative journalism uncovered the scandal

Examples of usage

  • The press has been criticized for biased reporting.
  • The freedom of the press is a fundamental right in many countries.
Context #3 | Verb

exerting force

To exert continuous physical force on (something), typically in order to operate a device or machine.

Synonyms

push, squeeze.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
press

Refers to media organizations or journalists collectively. It also involves applying force physically.

  • The press gathered for the conference.
  • He was able to lift the weight by pressing it above his head.
push

Used when exerting force to move something away, or to encourage someone to do something, often persistently.

  • You have to push the door to open it.
  • She pushed him to complete his homework.
squeeze

Used when applying pressure to compress or extract something, often in a more intense or forceful way. It can also mean to fit into a tight space or situation.

  • Squeeze the lemon to get the juice.
  • He managed to squeeze into the crowded elevator.

Examples of usage

  • He pressed the button to start the machine.
  • She pressed down on the accelerator to speed up.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

History

  • The first printing press was invented by Johannes Gutenberg in the 15th century, revolutionizing the spread of information.
  • Throughout history, various forms of press have played significant roles in social movements, like the civil rights movement in the 1960s.
  • The newspaper industry grew rapidly in the 19th century with the advent of the penny press, making news accessible to common people.

Media

  • Modern press includes various forms of media such as newspapers, radio, television, and online news platforms.
  • Press freedom is a critical issue in many countries, affecting how journalists can report the news without fear.
  • Investigative journalism has uncovered significant societal issues, from political scandals to corporate malfeasance.

Technology

  • The digital age has transformed the press, allowing instant publication and global distribution of information.
  • Social media platforms have become a new form of 'press', with users sharing news and opinions rapidly.
  • Big data is increasingly impacting how journalists gather information and what stories they cover.

Origin of 'press'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'premere', which means 'to press down' or 'to squeeze'.
  • In the 18th century, 'press' began referring to printing and publishing, which influenced the media we know today.
  • The term 'Fourth Estate' refers to the press, highlighting its role among the three other branches of government.

The word 'press' has a long history, dating back to the 14th century. It originally comes from the Old French word 'presser', meaning 'to press, push'. Over time, the word evolved to have various meanings related to printing, media, and exerting force. The printing press revolutionized the way information was distributed, while the freedom of the press became a cornerstone of democracy. Today, 'press' is used in a wide range of contexts, reflecting its rich linguistic and historical background.

See also: depress, express, impress, oppress, pressing, pressingly, pressings, pressure, pressuring, repress, repressed.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,319, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.