master copy; original manuscript; base text
Meanings
2 senses · 5 examplesnoun
original manuscript kept as a basis; master copy
Refers to the original draft or manuscript that serves as the basis for creating revised editions or copies. Often preserved as the authoritative source.
The original manuscript of this novel has already been lost.
The editor is checking the master copy in preparation for publishing a revised edition.
noun
base text used for copying, printing, or textual collation
technicalUsed in publishing, library science, and textual criticism to refer to the authoritative version against which other versions are checked or from which copies are made.
When collating texts, one must carefully check against the base text to avoid errors and omissions.
The base text of this ancient book is collected in the National Library.
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The publishing house decided to use this edition as the master copy for reprinting.