Definition

Noun: A linotype machine is a mechanical typesetting device. It is operated by a keyboard and produces, or "casts," a complete line of type as one solid metal piece, called a "slug." This technology was primarily used for printing newspapers and books.

Usage

The term is used specifically to refer to this historical piece of printing equipment. It is a compound noun, typically used in its full form. * The newspaper office still had an old linotype machine in the basement. * Before digital typesetting, operators used a linotype machine to set text for printing.

Advanced Usage

• The machine is often referred to simply as a Linotype (capitalized, as it was originally a trademark).
  • He was a skilled Linotype operator for the local paper.

Variants and Related Words

• Linotype (noun): A common shortened form for the linotype machine.
• Linotypist (noun): A person who operates a linotype machine.
• Monotype (noun): A different typesetting machine that casts individual characters, not entire lines.

Synonyms

• Typesetting machine
• Line-casting machine

Different Meanings

The word "linotype machine" has only one specific meaning related to historical printing technology. It is not used in other contexts.

Noun

1. a typesetting machine operated from a keyboard that casts an entire line as a single slug of metal