Crossword Dictionary

What's The Definition Of Stereotype?

\Ste"re*o*type\, n. [Stereo- + -type: cf. F. st['e]r['e]otype.] 1. A plate forming an exact faximile of a page of type or of an engraving, used in printing books, etc.; specifically, a plate with type-metal face, used for printing. Note: A stereotype, or stereotypr plate, is made by setting movable type as for ordinary printing; from these a cast is taken in plaster of Paris, paper pulp, or the like, and upon this cast melted type metal is poured, which, when hardened, makes a solid page or column, from which the impression is taken as from type. 2. The art or process of making such plates, or of executing work by means of them. {Stereotype block}, a block, usually of wood, to which a stereotype plate is attached while being used in printing.
\Ste"re*o*type\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Stereotyped}; p. pr. & vb. n. {Stereotyping}.] [Cf. F. st['e]r['e]otyper.] 1. To prepare for printing in stereotype; to make the stereotype plates of; as, to stereotype the Bible. 2. Fig.: To make firm or permanent; to fix. Powerful causes tending to stereotype and aggravate the poverty of old conditions. --Duke of Argyll (1887).