Stationery Meaning and Definition
Stationery
Pronunciation
/ˈsteɪʃənɛri/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
Materials, such as paper, pens, ink, and other office supplies, used for writing, drawing, or other forms of communication.
Examples
- The office supply store sold a variety of stationery items.
- She spent hours selecting the perfect stationery for her wedding invitations.
Synonyms
- Office supplies
- Desk accessories
Antonyms
- None
Additional Information
Stationery can include a wide range of items, such as paper, pens, pencils, markers, ink, and other writing instruments. It can also include paper products like notebooks, journals, and cards. In addition, stationery can refer to the decorative aspects of writing materials, such as custom-designed notebooks or personalized pens.
In modern times, stationery has evolved to include digital tools and software, allowing individuals to create and share digital documents and communications. Despite the shift towards digital stationery, physical stationery items remain popular for their tactile nature and aesthetic appeal.
Etymology
The word “stationery” originated in the 14th century from the Latin “stationarius,” meaning “stationer” or ” bookseller.” Over time, the term evolved to encompass a broader range of writing materials and office supplies.
Usage Notes
Stationery can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the specific items being referred to. In formal settings, such as business or academic writing, stationery may refer to high-quality, professional-grade materials. In informal settings, such as personal correspondence or creative projects, stationery may refer to more casual or decorative items.
Cultural References
In the popular TV show “The Office,” the character Dwight Schrute is often depicted as being obsessed with stationery, particularly beet-red paper and high-quality pens.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
None
Related Words or Phrases
- Office supplies
- Desk accessories
- Writing materials
Collocations
- Stationery set
- Stationery store
- Personalized stationery
Frequency of Use
Stationery is a moderately common word in modern language, used frequently in formal and informal contexts.
Common Misspellings
- Stationary (correct spelling)
- Stationerys
- Stationarie