Preprint

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A document or article published before formal peer review and often prior to editorial changes
2. An early version of a scholarly work made accessible to the public, allowing for feedback before final publication
3. Typically shared in online repositories, this type of material contributes to collaboration and dissemination within the academic community

Etymology: The term "preprint" emerged in the late 20th century, reflecting a significant shift in the dissemination of academic research. It was coined to describe scholarly articles that are shared publicly before they have undergone formal peer review and publication in a scientific journal. The rise of the internet and digital platforms provided the necessary infrastructure for researchers to circulate their work more freely and rapidly, enabling the sharing of findings with a global audience almost instantaneously. This revolutionary practice gained considerable traction in fields such as physics, mathematics, and computer science, where communities began to embrace the concept of sharing ideas in their nascent form. The word itself is a straightforward combination of the prefix "pre-" meaning "before" and "print," which comes from the Latin "premere," meaning "to press." In this context, "pre" signifies the stage that occurs prior to the formal printing and publication of scholarly work. The practice of preprinting thus represents an important evolution in how scientific knowledge is shared, challenging traditional publishing norms and facilitating a more open exchange of information. Preprints began to be systematically archived in dedicated repositories, with the first significant platform, arXiv, established in 1991. This platform allowed researchers to upload their manuscripts, making them accessible to the public prior to peer review. As the concept gained acceptance, other fields followed suit, leading to the creation of additional repositories tailored to specific disciplines. The increasing popularity of preprints reflects a broader trend towards transparency and collaboration in research, reshaping the landscape of academic publishing. Over time, the meaning of this term has expanded beyond its original confines. While it initially referred specifically to academic papers, it now encompasses a wider array of content, including conference posters and presentations. The practice of preprinting has been particularly influential during times of crisis, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, when rapid sharing of research became critical for public health responses. As a result, the term has grown to symbolize not only a method of sharing research but also an ethos of openness and rapid communication in the scientific community.

Synonyms: draft, manuscript, proof, version, publication