Magazine

A magazine is a periodical publication, print or digital, produced on a regular schedule, that contains any of a variety of subject-oriented textual and visual content forms. Magazines are generally financed by advertising, purchase price, prepaid subscriptions, or by a combination of the three. They are categorised by their frequency of publication (i.e., as weeklies, monthlies, quarterlies, etc.), their target audiences (e.g., women's and trade magazines), their subjects of focus (e.g., popular science and religious), and their tones or approach (e.g., works of satire or humor). Appearance on the cover of print magazines has historically been understood to convey a place of honor or distinction to an individual or event. In the 21st century, many traditional print magazines have transitioned entirely to digital formats or launched online editions to reach a global audience.

Term origin and definition

Origin

The etymology of the word "magazine" suggests derivation from the Arabic makhāzin (مخازن), the broken plural of makhzan (مخزن) meaning "depot, storehouse" (originally military storehouse); that comes to English via Middle French magasin and Italian magazzino. In its original sense, the word "magazine" referred to a storage space or device.

Definitions

A magazine is a periodical publication, issued in print or digital form at regular intervals, that contains a collection of articles, essays, stories, photographs, illustrations, or other content intended for a particular audience. Magazines are typically published weekly, monthly, or quarterly and are distinguished from newspapers by their less frequent publication schedule, greater emphasis on feature content, and more specialized or targeted audience.

The term magazine derives from the Arabic makhāzin ("storehouses").