errata
nounPronunciation: /ɪˈrɑːtə/
A list of errors and their corrections discovered in a published work after printing or publication.
Full Definition
Errata is a formal compilation of mistakes identified in a published work, along with their corrections, typically published as a separate sheet or notice. In academic libraries and scholarly publishing, errata serves as a quality control mechanism to maintain accuracy and credibility of published materials. These corrections can include typographical errors, factual mistakes, attribution errors, or other inaccuracies that escaped detection during the editorial and proofreading process. Errata helps preserve the integrity of scholarly communication by providing transparent correction of published errors.
Plain English
A list of mistakes found in a book or publication after it was printed, along with the correct information.
In Editorial Context
Editorial correction tool used to address errors discovered after publication, maintaining content accuracy and editorial standards in the published record.
Etymology & History
Developed with the printing press as a method to correct errors without reprinting entire works, essential for maintaining accuracy in scholarly texts.
Has expanded from print corrections to include digital errata and online correction notices in electronic publications.
Usage
"The library's digital repository includes errata for all published works to ensure researchers have access to the most accurate information."
Usage note: Errata is already plural; the singular form is 'erratum'.
Context: scholarly publishing, academic libraries, quality control, post-publication corrections
Region: international
Also known as
Contrasted with
Don't confuse with
Sometimes confused with 'addenda' which adds new information rather than correcting errors