Glossary

The PRINTING United Alliance Glossary serves as an excellent industry terminology resource. It is the language by which we all communicate. Without it, universal understanding would be impossible.

To keep our constituents well informed about changes to the increasingly complex industry terminology, PRINTING United Alliance has developed this glossary of terms. Definitions are for general reference only. Usage may vary between companies, individuals, or national and country customs. The information presented is as accurate as the authors and editors can ascertain and PRINTING United Alliance assumes no responsibility for the use of information presented herein.
  • Anvil cut label
    Pressure sensitive label that have been die cut through components of the label stock.
  • Body label
    A decoration applied to the body of a bottle.
  • Butt cut label
    Labels separated by a single knife-cut to the release liner.
  • Die cut label
    Pressure sensitive label on a release liner from which the matrix has been removed.
  • Face cut label
    A die-cut label where the matrix has not been removed.
  • Label
    An applied printed identification denoting contents, ownership, directions, destination, rating, or use.
  • Label adhesion test
    A method to determining the degree that a standard or designated label adhesive adheres to a surface under specific conditions.
  • Pressure sensitive label stock (self-adhesive label stock)
    Pressure sensitive substrate material suitable for the production of labels.
  • Punched out label
    Labels that have been die cut through both the face and backing sheet or liner.
  • Red label
    The color and type of label required by the Department of Transportation (DOT) on shipment of flammable materials (US).
  • Roll label
    Labels produced on continuous strips and packaged in continuous roll form.
  • Sheet label
    Labels that have been produced in sheet form.
  • Split top labels (butt label) (knife-cut label)
    Labels so located on the sheet that one edge abutts the comparable edge of another so that one edge of the die separates the labels in cutting.
  • Tamper proof label
    Pressure sensitive label material where removal after application is not possible without destroying the label.
  • Tarnish proof label
    Pressure sensitive labels that are free of substances that might discolor or blemish copper or silver.
  • Transparent label
    Pressure sensitive labels whose face material, adhesive and protective coatings transmit light so that objects may be seen through them.