editorial board
phrasePronunciation: /ˌɛdɪˈtɔriəl bɔrd/
Also written as: EB
A group of subject matter experts who provide guidance on journal direction, manuscript evaluation, and publication standards.
Full Definition
An editorial board consists of distinguished scholars and researchers in relevant fields who serve in an advisory capacity to support a journal's editorial mission and maintain publication quality. Board members typically assist with peer review coordination, provide expertise for difficult editorial decisions, contribute to journal policy development, and lend credibility to the publication through their professional reputations. The board structure usually includes various levels such as associate editors, section editors, and advisory board members with different responsibilities.
Plain English
A team of well-known experts in a field who help a journal decide which articles to publish and maintain the journal's quality and reputation.
In Editorial Context
The primary advisory and operational structure supporting editorial decision-making, manuscript handling workflow, and maintenance of scholarly standards and journal reputation.
Etymology & History
Formalized as academic publishing became more professional and specialized, requiring expert oversight to maintain scholarly credibility and manage increasing submission volumes.
Evolved from informal networks of scholarly advisors to structured governance bodies with defined roles and rotating terms.
Usage
"The editorial board met quarterly to review journal policies and discuss emerging trends in the field."
Usage note: Distinct from the editorial staff (employees) - board members are typically volunteers who serve terms.
Context: journal governance, editorial decision-making, scholarly credibility
Region: international
Also known as
Contrasted with
Don't confuse with
Sometimes confused with paid editorial staff, but editorial board members are usually unpaid volunteers serving fixed terms.