G-2
Glossary
color space
A model for representing color in terms
of measurable values, such as the amount
of red, green, and blue in an image. RGB
and CMYK color spaces are based on
color devices—monitors and printers
respectively. Other color spaces, such as
CIELAB, are based on mathematical
models and are device-independent.
They are not based on the color response
of a particular device.
colorant
An ink, die, toner, paint, or other
pigment that modifies the color of media
to which it is applied.
composite printer
Any printer that can print directly in
color without first creating color
separations. A composite print can be
used as an early proof of an offset print
job.
continuous tone (contone)
A characteristic of printing in which dots
(in some cases very elongated dots or
lines) of different sizes are printed; can
represent several intermediate gray tones
between highlight and shadow.
continuous tone (contone) image
An image containing fine gradations of
tones, such as a photographic image.
custom color system
A system of named color swatches that
can be matched on press using process or
spot colors. PANTONE and TruMatch
are examples of custom color systems.
density
A precise measurement of the light
energy transmitted or reflected by a
surface in the presence of a standard
light source.
densitometer
An instrument commonly used in the
graphic arts industry to measure density
according to a specified standard.
DIC
A Japanese standard of specifications for
separations, proofs, and color printing.
Encapsulated PostScript (EPS or EPSF)
A PostScript file format expressly
designed to be embedded in another
PostScript stream.
Euroscale
A European standard of specifications
for separations, proofs, and color
printing.
flexography
A printing technology that uses flexible
raised-image plates. Flexography can be
used to print on non-flat materials such
as cans.
four-color printer
A printing device that uses cyan,
magenta, yellow, and black ink or toner.
gamma
A numeric value representing the plotted
relationship (gamma curve) between the
input and output values of a color
monitor. If gamma equals 1, input values
