What does photocopier mean?
A photocopier is a machine that makes reproductions of documents, photographs, diagrams, or other material, usually by transferring the image onto paper. It is one of the most familiar office appliances in both British and American English, and the term can also refer informally to the copy itself. In offices, schools, libraries, and shops, people may be asked to use the photocopier, replace its paper or toner, or report a malfunction. Earlier photocopiers commonly used xerographic or similar reprographic processes, while many modern office machines combine copying, scanning, and printing. The word clearly identifies the object and its function: it combines the idea of a photograph or visual image with that of a copier. Although electronic scanning and printing have made many separate machines unnecessary, the photocopier remains a common term for multifunction devices and for the basic paper-copying process.
A machine that reproduces a document, photograph, or other image onto paper or another surface.
"The original form was reduced to a single page and then reproduced on the photocopier."
A copy produced by a machine that reproduces an image onto paper.
"The file arrived as a poor-quality photocopier, making the handwritten notes difficult to read."
The regular plural is used when referring to more than one machine.
"The photocopiers are located beside the printers on the second floor."
The photocopier turned the paper document into a machine that could reproduce itself.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does photocopier come from?
“Photocopier” is a blend of the combining form “photo-” and “copier,” and developed alongside the spread of office copying technology in the 20th century. Its “photo-” element comes from Greek phōs, meaning “light,” and appears in related words such as “photograph,” “photography,” and “photographic.” “Copier” is derived from “copy,” ultimately from Latin copiāre, meaning “to copy or multiply.”
Related word forms
How photocopier is actually used
In general use, “photocopier” is widely understood in both British and American English. “Copier” and “copy machine” are common alternatives, while “xerox machine” is more regional and informal in American English and may refer specifically to xerographic copying technology.
Easily confused with photocopier
A photocopier reproduces documents onto paper, whereas a scanner converts documents and images into digital files for use on a computer.
A photocopier creates a paper copy of an existing document, while a printer produces documents from digital files.