Stationery Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
stationery
[หsteษชสษnษri ]
Definition
office supplies
Stationery refers to writing materials such as paper, pens, pencils, and envelopes. It is commonly used for writing letters, notes, or other written communications.
Synonyms
office supplies, stationery items, writing materials.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| stationery |
Used to refer to paper, envelopes, and other materials used for writing or office activities, often with a more formal or specialized connotation.
|
| writing materials |
Generally used to refer to items specifically for writing, such as pens, pencils, and paper. This term often indicates educational or artistic use.
|
| office supplies |
Used in a broader context to refer to various items needed for office work, including pens, paper, staplers, etc.
|
| stationery items |
Similar to 'stationery', but emphasizes the individual objects, typically used in lists or when specifying different kinds of stationery.
|
Examples of usage
- Can you pass me the stationery? I need to write a letter.
- She bought some new stationery for her office.
- The store sells a wide variety of stationery items.
- I always keep a stock of stationery in my desk.
- Do you have any stationery I could borrow?
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Art & Culture
- Stationery has been integral in artistic movements, with many renowned artists using decorative paper and unique writing tools.
- In many cultures, ornate stationery is used for formal invitations, symbolizing elegance and tradition.
- Calligraphy, often practiced on special stationery, is recognized as an art form, focusing on beautiful handwriting.
Technology
- With the rise of digital communication, traditional stationery has seen a resurgence as people seek tactile and personalized ways to connect.
- Stationery brands are now incorporating technology by creating customizable and interactive paper products.
- Some modern stationery products include eco-friendly materials, highlighting a trend towards environmental sustainability.
Psychology
- Using stationery can enhance the joy of writing, as studies show that personalized items lead to increased motivation and satisfaction.
- Handwritten notes on beautiful paper can evoke stronger emotional connections compared to digital messages.
- Research indicates that the act of writing by hand engages different areas of the brain, fostering creativity and better retention of information.
History
- In the Renaissance era, writing was considered a noble skill, and high-quality stationery was often reserved for the wealthy.
- The invention of the paper mill in the 13th century helped to lower the cost of stationery, making it more accessible to the general public.
- Letters written with quill pens on fine stationery were often cherished, leading to the tradition of preserving personal correspondence as historical documents.
Origin of 'stationery'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'stationery' comes from the Latin word 'stationarius,' meaning 'to stand or stay,' referring to shopkeepers who sold writing materials.
- Historically, 'stationer' referred to someone who sold books and materials at a fixed location.
- The word was first recorded in English during the late 14th century, showing its long-standing presence in writing culture.
The word 'stationery' originated from the Latin word 'stationarius', which means 'pertaining to a station' or 'a trader with a fixed location'. In the 14th century, it referred to books and writing materials kept by a stationer, a person who sold books and other written materials. Over time, the term evolved to specifically refer to writing materials. Today, stationery is an essential part of office supplies and personal correspondence.
See also: stationary, stations.