aldine: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very LowTechnical / Specialised
Quick answer
What does “aldine” mean?
Relating to Aldus Manutius, a Venetian printer, or to books printed by him or in his style.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
Relating to Aldus Manutius, a Venetian printer, or to books printed by him or in his style.
Used more broadly to describe a style of printing, typography, or book design characteristic of the Aldine Press, especially the use of italic type and octavo formats.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage between British and American English. The term is equally specialised in both varieties.
Connotations
Connotes historical significance, craftsmanship, and the early history of printing.
Frequency
Extremely rare in general discourse; used almost exclusively by bibliophiles, historians, and specialists in printing.
Grammar
How to Use “aldine” in a Sentence
adjective + noun (e.g., Aldine edition)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “aldine” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The library acquired a pristine Aldine edition of Aristotle's works.
- She specialised in the cataloguing of Aldine imprints.
American English
- The auction featured a valuable Aldine Press volume.
- His collection focuses on Aldine-style typography.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in historical, literary, and bibliographical studies.
Everyday
Not used.
Technical
Used in printing history, typography, and rare book cataloguing.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “aldine”
Neutral
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “aldine”
- Using it as a general synonym for 'old' or 'antique'.
- Confusing it with 'alpine'.
- Assuming it is a common noun.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. It refers specifically to books printed by Aldus Manutius and his press in Venice (c. 1495–1515), or to works printed in imitation of his distinctive style.
No, it is a very low-frequency, specialised term known mainly to historians, librarians, and rare book collectors.
The use of italic type (which Aldus helped popularise), the octavo format (making books more portable), and the printer's mark featuring an anchor and dolphin.
It is pronounced /ˈɔːldaɪn/ (AWL-dyne), with the stress on the first syllable.
Relating to Aldus Manutius, a Venetian printer, or to books printed by him or in his style.
Aldine is usually technical / specialised in register.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
ALDINE: ALDus's INvaluable Editions.
Conceptual Metaphor
A standard of quality or a historical benchmark in printing.
Practice
Quiz
In which field is the term 'aldine' primarily used?