Calepin

/ˈkæl.ə.pɪn/ noun

Definition

A small notebook or memorandum book, especially one used for writing down notes or observations.

Etymology

Named after Ambrogio Calepino, a 16th-century Italian lexicographer and monk known for his polyglot dictionary. The term became associated with reference books and note-taking.

Kelly Says

A famous dictionary maker's name became so synonymous with personal reference notebooks that 'calepin' became the word for them—like how 'kleenex' became what people call any tissue!

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