Definition

A note found at the end of a book that provides information about its publication, such as the publisher's name and the date of printing.

Example

The colophon at the end of the book revealed that it was printed in 2021 by a small local publisher.

Conversation

Have you ever noticed the colophon at the end of a book?

Yeah, I saw one the other day, but I didn't really understand what it was for.

It's actually pretty interesting; it gives details about the book's publication.

That makes sense! I’ll have to pay more attention to those next time.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Colophon comes from the Greek 'kolophon' (meaning finishing touch or summit). It originally referred to a finishing touch or an inscription at the end of a book, indicating its place of publication or the printer's mark.

Memory Tip

Think of 'kolophon' as the 'finishing touch' to a book, which helps you remember that a colophon is an inscription that marks the end of a publication.

Visually Confused Words