Marginalia

usgb/ˌmɑːrdʒɪˈneɪliə/
noun

Notes, comments, or doodles written in the margins (sides) of a book, document or piece of paper.

His copy of the novel was filled with marginalia where he jotted down his thoughts and responses.
Visual representation of "marginalia" - Notes, comments, or doodles written in the margins (sides) of a book, document or piece of paper.

Often appears as...

  • personal marginalia
  • scribbled marginalia

Usage tips

Academic

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Visual representation of "marginalia"
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Academic Use

Marginalia are often used in academic settings to note important ideas or questions while reading.

Illustration for Academic Use
She added marginalia to the article to prepare for her thesis discussion.
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Reflect Personal Thoughts

Marginalia can reflect personal responses or emotional reactions to the text being read.

Illustration for Reflect Personal Thoughts
His marginalia were passionate, showing his strong disagreement with the author.
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Historical Insights

Marginalia in old books can provide historical insights into how past readers engaged with the text.

Illustration for Historical Insights
The historian was excited to find marginalia from the book's original owner in 1823.
Visual representation of the word "Marginalia"

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