Pronunciation: [ˈa͡ʊt pɹˈɪnt] (IPA) 
The correct spelling of the phrase "out of print" has caused confusion for many English learners. The IPA phonetic transcription for this phrase is /aʊt ʌv prɪnt/. The first part of the word, "out," is pronounced with the diphthong /aʊ/ as in "how." The preposition "of" is pronounced with the schwa sound /ə/. "Print" is pronounced with the short "i" sound /ɪ/. Remember to spell it "out of print" instead of "out print."
Out of print refers to a book, publication, or other printed material that is no longer being produced or made available by the publisher or distributor. When a work goes out of print, it means that the publisher has ceased to print new copies and has no plans to reissue or continue production in the future.
This lack of availability can occur due to various reasons. For instance, it may happen because the demand for the work has declined over time, rendering it unprofitable for the publisher to continue printing copies. Alternatively, a work may go out of print when the rights to publish it have expired or been revoked by the copyright holder.
An out-of-print status can significantly impact the accessibility and availability of a particular book or publication. While copies of out-of-print works may still be found in libraries or secondhand bookstores, they generally become more difficult to find and can be accompanied by higher prices. In some cases, out-of-print books may become sought-after collector's items, leading to an increased value in the secondary market.
However, the advent of digital publishing and print-on-demand services has made it possible for certain out-of-print works to be reissued or made available again through electronic means. These technologies have provided avenues for authors, publishers, and enthusiasts to revive and preserve older or niche publications that may have otherwise remained out of print.
The term "out of print" originated in the publishing industry and dates back to the late 18th century. It is formed by combining the preposition "out" with the noun "print".
The word "print" in this context refers to the process of producing physical copies of books or other printed material. When a book is "in print", it means that it is currently being produced and available for purchase. On the other hand, when a book is "out of print", it means that it is no longer being produced and therefore unavailable for purchase from the original publisher.
The etymology of "print" itself can be traced back to the Latin word "imprimere", meaning "to press into or upon". Eventually, it evolved into Old French as "preindre", which meant "to print, press".
