Press - Definition and Overview

"Press" is a general term having a number of related meanings stemming from the original definition of "pressing" as the physical action of applying force:

Things relating to Metalworking:

• Machine press, a machine that shapes material by the application of pressure;
• Flypress, a machine that cuts material by pressing with a sharp edged mold or tool;

Things relating to clothing:

• Ironing is the process of pressing wrinkles out of (or into) clothes;
• Steam press is a machine that presses clothing in the presence of steam;

Things relating to Journalism:

• Printing press, which originally worked by pressing a plate of type onto paper;
• Publisher, a person or organization engaged in publishing, in which the printing press traditionally played a key role;
• a collection of journalists or newspapers;

Military draft-related:

• Impressment, a method of involuntary recruitment by navies;

Colloquial usage:

• Lobbying, a discussion in which someone asks strongly (presses) for action (such as of a lawmaker or parent);

See also: Pressure