Xeroxing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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xeroxing
[ˈzɪərɒksɪŋ ]
Definition
office equipment
Xeroxing refers to the process of making photocopies using a Xerox machine, which is a brand name for a type of photocopier. This term is often used generically to describe the act of photocopying, regardless of the equipment used. Originally developed in the 20th century, Xerox machines allowed for quick and efficient duplication of documents. The term has become synonymous with photocopying in many professional environments, reflecting its widespread use in offices and other settings.
Synonyms
copying, duplicating, photocopying.
Examples of usage
- I need to do some xeroxing before the meeting.
- She spent the afternoon xeroxing important documents.
- Can you handle the xeroxing for the presentation?
- Xeroxing multiple copies of the report takes less time.
- The office is equipped with a xeroxing machine.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Technology
- The first photocopier was introduced in 1938 by Chester Carlson, using a process called electrophotography.
- Xerox machines revolutionized offices, allowing documents to be duplicated quickly and efficiently, changing workplace communication.
Cultural Impact
- In the 1960s and 70s, the word 'xerox' became so common that it turned into a verb, meaning to copy something, regardless of the brand.
- The Xerox brand has become synonymous with photocopying, indicating how powerful branding can shape everyday language.
Art
- Many artists in the 1970s, like Andy Warhol, used xeroxing as a medium, exploring themes of replication and mass production in art.
- Xerography has been utilized for creating unique textures and effects in prints, making it a popular choice among experimental artists.
Business
- Xerox pioneered the concept of the photocopier as a business tool, significantly enhancing productivity and collaboration in offices.
- The company also introduced innovations such as the first user-friendly desktop publishing system, which laid the groundwork for modern printing.
Origin of 'xeroxing'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'Xerox' comes from the Greek word 'xeros', meaning dry, which refers to the dry copy process utilized in copying.
- The brand Xerox was established in 1906, initially focusing on developing photoelectric technology, paving the way for modern photocopying.
The term 'Xerox' originates from the name of the American company Xerox Corporation, which was founded in 1906 as The Haloid Photographic Company. In 1947, they introduced the first commercial photocopier, the Xerox Model 914, which revolutionized the way documents were copied and distributed. The word 'xerography' comes from the Greek words 'xeros' meaning 'dry' and 'graphia' meaning 'writing', which refers to the dry process used in photocopying. Due to the effectiveness and popularity of its machines, the name 'Xerox' became a verb in common usage, signaling the widespread acceptance of photocopying technology. By the 1960s, the term was so popular that it was used generically to refer to photocopying processes, regardless of the brand of machine used. Over time, 'xeroxing' has entered everyday language, particularly in a business context, signifying not just the action of copying documents but also the cultural impact of the machine on modern work environments.
Word Frequency Rank
At position #41,908, 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.