Odd Jargon in Publishing and Computing: A Unique Lexicon Explained

In early 1970s computing, the mainframe manufacturers were known as IBM and the BUNCH: Burroughs, Univac, NCR, Control Data, and Honeywell. Even the onboard computer in the movie 2001: A Space Odyssey was named HAL, which is a play on IBM. These computing acronyms and terms, though often amusing, are a testament to the industry's unique lexicon.

Outside of computing, the world of publishing is rife with its own set of peculiar jargon that those outside the field may find bewildering. From editors to art directors, each role within publishing has its own vocabulary, which can sometimes be nonsensical or wonder-inducing.

A Headline is Not a Headline, It's a Hed

A headline, a fundamental element of any article, is not simply referred to as such. Instead, it is known as a hed. Similarly, the opening sentences of a composition or the first few paragraphs of an article, which lead into the story, are not called a "lede," as one might expect, but "hed." Just like acronyms in computing, these terms are unique to the publishing industry.

Paragraphs and Summaries

Within the content of an article, editors and authors often use specific terms for different parts. For instance, a paragraph is not just a paragraph. Instead, an editor might write graf in the margin to note a paragraph they want the author to work on. And a key paragraph that summarizes the essence of an entire article is called a nut graf — short for a summary paragraph.

More Jargon Uncovered

Below the headline, a summary of a story is referred to as a dek, not a subhead. This term adds another layer of complexity to the vocabulary of publishing professionals. Further, if a segment of an article or a portion of a story is missing from a draft, the industry does not use the letter "T" as an abbreviation, instead opting for TK, short for "no key."

A page mock-up with an article awaiting photography or artwork has a placeholder called an FPO, which stands for "for position only." This term is a humorous reference to the fact that the real photo or artwork will be inserted at a later stage.

More about the nut graf: The nut graf tells the reader what the writer is up to

Musicians and Harmony

Musicians too have their own lexicon, which often involves terms that may seem alien to the uninitiated. For instance, the term "bad rub" is used in discussions of harmony. It describes a dissonant note in a chord or a sequence of chords that is so out-of-context it creates a distraction. However, a dissonance that is not rejected by the ear sets up a nice resolution, ensuring that the listener feels the music has a clear direction.

Understanding the relationship between consonance and dissonance in music is crucial. Consonance refers to harmonious intervals, while dissonance involves notes that clash, although under certain circumstances, dissonance can lead to a satisfying resolution. The term "bad rub" is particularly useful for musicians in identifying and fixing these issues.

In summary, the jargon in publishing and music reflects the unique challenges and nuances of these fields. Whether it's editing a headline as a hed, understanding dissonance in music, or working with mock-ups in publishing, the terms and jargon used provide context and clarity for those who practice these crafts.

Finally, publisher jargon and computing acronyms are key terms that help users find content about this topic through search engines.