Print means to make words or images appear on paper or another surface, usually using a machine. When you click the print button on a computer, a printer uses ink to reproduce what's on your screen onto paper. Before computers, people used printing presses with metal letters covered in ink, pressing them against paper to create books, newspapers, and posters.

The invention of the printing press around 1440 by Johannes Gutenberg transformed the world. Before that, every book had to be copied by hand, making books rare and expensive. Printing made it possible to produce thousands of identical copies quickly, spreading knowledge and ideas faster than ever before. Scientists could share discoveries, authors could reach wide audiences, and ordinary people could afford to own books.

Print also describes the letters and words you see in books and newspapers, as in “The print was too small to read easily.” When something appears in print, it means it's been published in a book, magazine, or newspaper. You might also print your name clearly on a form instead of using cursive handwriting.

The phrase out of print means a book is no longer being produced, though you might find used copies. People also use fingerprints to identify individuals, since everyone's finger ridges leave unique marks when pressed against surfaces.