letterpress

[ let-er-pres ]

noun

1. the process of printing from letters letter or type in relief, rather than from intaglio plates or planographically.
2. matter printed in such a manner.
3. Chiefly British. printed text or reading matter, as distinguished from illustrations.

adverb

1. by letterpress:

   The circular should be printed letterpress, not offset.

adjective

1. set in letterpress:

   letterpress work.

letterpress

/ ˈlɛtəˌprɛs /

noun

1. 1. a method of printing in which ink is transferred from raised surfaces to paper by pressure; relief printing
   2. matter so printed
2. text matter as distinct from illustrations

Word History and Origins

Origin of letterpress¹

First recorded in 1750–60; letter ¹ + press ¹

Example Sentences

When we got engaged three years ago, talk of caterers and florists and letterpress invitations occupied us at these gatherings.

From The Daily Beast

Indeed, he remembered that he had forgotten to consult the letterpress as to which it represented.

From Project Gutenberg

He taught him how to clean letterpress and engravings from ferruginous, fungous, and other kinds of spots.

From Project Gutenberg

The letterpress of this great work is a choice specimen of Nichol's types, and each play occupies a separate portfolio.

From Project Gutenberg

The letterpress, too, is extraordinarily full and elaborate.

From Project Gutenberg

Our readers will be able now to consult our pictures and letterpress of the Church, at the same time that they see the original.

From Project Gutenberg