How Do You Spell 12MO?

Pronunciation: [twˈɛlv mˈə͡ʊ] (IPA)

The word "12mo" is commonly used in book publishing to indicate the format size of a book, specifically that it is a duodecimo or "twelvemo". The spelling "12mo" is a condensed form of "twelvemo" and is pronounced /twɛlvoʊ/ using the International Phonetic Alphabet. This format size refers to a book that has been printed on a large sheet of paper and then folded into twelve equal sections, resulting in a small-sized book that is easy to carry and read.

12MO Meaning and Definition

  1. 12mo is an abbreviation used in bookbinding and bibliographic classification to denote the size or format of a book. Derived from the Latin words "duodecimo" or "in duodecimo," meaning "in twelves," it refers to a specific book size standardized by the bibliographic community.

    In terms of physical dimensions, a 12mo book typically measures around 5-7 inches in height, 3-4 inches in width, and is usually less than one inch thick. This size is achieved by folding a standard printer's sheet into twelve equal sections, resulting in miniature pages. Consequently, the content of the book is presented in smaller print, usually requiring readers to employ visual aids like magnifying glasses to enhance legibility.

    The 12mo format finds its origins in historical European book production, particularly during the Renaissance and the Age of Enlightenment when bookbinding techniques thrived. Due to its portable size, 12mo books were highly sought after for travel and accessibility. Many classical literary works and religious texts were published and distributed in this format, ensuring widespread availability and affordability.

    Today, while 12mo books are not as prevalent as they once were, the term remains significant in bibliography and rare book collecting. It provides a precise classification system, aiding in cataloging and archiving historical literary works. The designation of 12mo serves as a form of shorthand, conveying a specific size and format essential for bibliographic identification.

Common Misspellings for 12MO

  • 12m0
  • q2mo
  • 1wmo
  • 12jo
  • 12m0
  • 212mo
  • 122mo
  • q12mo
  • 1q2mo
  • 12qmo
  • 1w2mo
  • 12wmo
  • 132mo
  • 123mo
  • 12nmo
  • 12mno
  • 12kmo
  • 12mko
  • 12jmo
  • 12mjo

Etymology of 12MO

The term "12mo" is derived from the Latin words "duodecimo" or "in duodecimo", which mean "in twelfth" or "twelve times". In bookbinding and printing, "12mo" is an abbreviation used to indicate that a book has been printed on sheets that are folded in such a way as to create twelve leaves or twenty-four pages, typically resulting in a smaller, pocket-sized book. The "mo" in "12mo" is an abbreviation for "month", which refers to the size of the book.

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