errata

[ ih-rah-tuh, ih-rey-, ih-rat-uh ]

noun

1. plural of erratum.
2. a list of errors and their corrections inserted, usually on a separate page or slip of paper, in a book or other publication; corrigenda.

errata

/ ɪˈrɑːtə /

noun

1. the plural of erratum

Usage Note

Errata is originally the plural of the singular Latin noun erratum. Like many such borrowed nouns ( agenda; candelabra ), it came by the mid-17th century to be used as a singular noun, meaning “a list of errors or corrections to be made (in a book).” Despite objections by some to this singular use, it is common in standard English: The errata begins on page 237. When errata clearly means “errors,” it takes plural verbs and pronouns: Although errata were frequent in the first printing, most of them were corrected in subsequent printings. As a singular noun, errata has developed an English plural form erratas, which is rarely used.

Word History and Origins

Origin of errata¹

First recorded in 1625–35

Example Sentences

There is “errata in every man’s life,” says Franklin, ever the Philadelphia printer, when his grandson accuses him — fairly, unfairly, who are we to judge — of being a bad husband, parent, etc.

From Los Angeles Times

It reminded me of the Reddit detectives who went into overdrive after the Boston marathon bombing 10 years ago, piecing together evidence from digital errata from cellphone videos and news footage, and ultimately fingering an innocent bystander as the culprit.

From Los Angeles Times

As part of the legal filings on Monday, Ms. Grossberg’s lawyers included her errata sheet, which is used by witnesses to correct mistakes in their depositions.

From New York Times

“Working with Science editorial, Tessier-Lavigne prepared Errata for both papers. However, due to an error on our part, Science never posted these Errata,” Thorp said in the statement.

From Washington Post

The journal will assess the claims, he adds, and issue errata or retractions if warranted.

From Science Magazine