Publish

/ˈpʌblɪʃ/ verb

Definition

To prepare and release a book, article, video, or other work so that many people can read, see, or use it.

Etymology

From Old French *publier*, from Latin *publicare*, meaning 'to make public'. At first it meant simply to announce something publicly; later it focused on printing and distributing written works.

Kelly Says

To publish is literally to 'make public'—to take something from your private mind and push it into the shared world. In the internet age, hitting 'post' or 'upload' is a tiny act of publishing that anyone can do.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Publishing industries and academic presses historically favored male authors and gatekeepers, limiting women’s and marginalized authors’ access to publication and recognition. This shaped whose voices were considered authoritative in public discourse.

Inclusive Usage

Encourage and recognize authors of all genders, and avoid assuming a default male author. When discussing publication metrics, be aware of structural barriers that have affected who gets published.

Inclusive Alternatives

["release","issue","make available","post"]

Empowerment Note

Women editors, authors, and small-press founders have been crucial in opening publishing to more diverse voices and challenging exclusionary norms.

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