Foolscap

Pronunciation

• UK IPA: /ˈfuːl.skæp/, /ˈfuːlz.kæp/
• CA IPA: /ˈfÊŠl.skæp/, /ˈfoÊŠl.skæp/
• Rhymes: -æp

Origin

Probably from a watermark of a fool's cap.

Full definition of foolscap

Noun

1. Alternative form of fool's cap
2. (strictly) Writing paper sheets measuring 13.25 x 16.5 inches
3. (more usually) Such a sheet folded or cut in half, thus approximately 8 x 13.25 inches.

• 1893, Walter Besant, The Ivory Gate Chapter 2, At twilight in the summer there is never anybody to fear—man, woman, or cat—in the chambers and at that hour the mice come out. They do not eat parchment or foolscap or red tape, but they eat the luncheon crumbs.
1. Printing paper measuring 13.5 inches x 17 inches.

Derived terms

• double foolscap