What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hectograph
Example
The teacher made copies of the worksheet using a hectograph. [hectograph: noun]
Example
She hectographed the letter and sent it to all her friends. [hectographed: past tense verb]
mimeograph
Example
The school newsletter was printed on a mimeograph machine. [mimeograph: noun]
Example
He mimeographed the flyer and distributed it to everyone in the neighborhood. [mimeographed: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mimeograph is more commonly used than hectograph in everyday language. However, both terms are now considered outdated and have been largely replaced by more modern printing technologies.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between hectograph and mimeograph?
Both hectograph and mimeograph are formal words that are not commonly used in everyday conversation. They are more likely to be encountered in historical or technical contexts.