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Definition of proofreader

proofreader

/ˈpruːfˌriːdər/
proof · read · er
Plural:proofreaders
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proofreader Lexical Profile

proofreader Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A person whose occupation is to read and mark corrections in written or printed text, especially printer's proofs, before publication.

Example

"The publishing house hired a meticulous proofreader to catch any remaining typographical errors before the novel went to press."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for proofreader

Word Nuance & Usage

In publishing, a proofreader focuses on surface errors in spelling, punctuation, and formatting on final proofs, whereas a copy editor revises the text earlier for style, clarity, and consistency.

• Nearby Words

proofing
proofless
proofread
proofreader
proofreading
prop
propaganda

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the mid-19th century as a compound of "proof" (in the printing sense of a trial sheet used for making corrections) and "reader."

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Proofreader. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/proofreader
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