colophon

Meaning

Noun

• In manuscripts (typically before the invention of printing), the note, usually at the end, left by the scribe who copied it, giving information on his exemplar, where and when the copy was made, and sometimes, his own name.
• A printer's or publisher's identifying inscription or logo appearing at the front or end of a book, or the same appearing on the spine or dust-jacket. It generally contains factual information about the book, especially about its production, and includes details about typographic style, the fonts used, the paper used, and perhaps the binding method of the book. Also used in a similar fashion for newspapers, magazines, and academic journals.
• A page on a website identifying the details of its creation, such as the author's name and the technologies used.
• A finishing stroke or crowning touch.

Origin

• Borrowed from Ancient Greek κολοφών ("peak or finishing touch").