Compositors

/kəm.ˈpɒz.ə.tərz/ noun

Definition

Plural of compositor; multiple people who set type for printing or write musical compositions.

Etymology

Simple regular plural of 'compositor' by adding -s. Maintains the Latin origin but adapts to English pluralization.

Kelly Says

In medieval print shops, compositors formed guilds and jealously guarded their secrets—they were among the first organized workers to collectively bargain for better pay, making them pioneers of labor organization in early modern Europe.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Plural of compositor; same gendered occupational context. Male compositors dominated printing unions and were recognized in credit lines; women's contributions were often uncredited.

Inclusive Usage

Use 'compositors' as gender-neutral plural; when discussing history, explicitly acknowledge women's erasure in printing trades.

Empowerment Note

Women compositors faced systematic wage gaps and exclusion from guild membership; recognizing their work corrects print history.

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