Boilerplate is a term that is commonly used in legal and business contexts. It refers to a standardized text or language that is used repeatedly in documents or contracts. Boilerplate is often used in contracts to save time and ensure consistency in language and terms. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of boilerplate, its origin, and its associations.
Definitions
Boilerplate is a term that has several definitions. In the legal context, it refers to standard language that is used in contracts or legal documents. In the publishing industry, it refers to pre-written material that is used in newspapers or magazines. In the software industry, it refers to pre-written code that is used in software development.
Origin
The term boilerplate has its origins in the printing industry. In the early days of printing, metal plates were used to print text. These plates were made of a durable metal called boilerplate, which was often used in the construction of steam boilers. The term boilerplate was later used to refer to the metal plates themselves, and eventually came to refer to any standardized text or language.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, boilerplate is “standardized text that can be used over and over again, often in legal documents.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “standardized or formulaic language used in legal or other documents, often inserted by reference to a standard form.”
Associations
Boilerplate is often associated with legal documents and contracts, but it can also be used in other contexts. In the publishing industry, it is used to refer to pre-written material that is used in newspapers or magazines. In the software industry, it refers to pre-written code that is used in software development.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for boilerplate include standard language, template, and form language.
Antonyms
Antonyms for boilerplate include unique language, custom language, and individualized language.
The same root words
The root word of boilerplate is “boiler,” which refers to a container used to heat water or other fluids. The term boilerplate originally referred to the metal plates used in steam boilers.
Example Sentences
- The contract contained a lot of boilerplate language that was difficult to understand.
- The newspaper used boilerplate material for the obituary section.
- The software developer used boilerplate code to save time and ensure consistency.