Crossword Dictionary

galley proof

galley proof - n 

a proof taken before the type is broken up to print pages 

Wordplays

In printing and publishing, proofs are the preliminary versions of publications meant for review by authors, editors, and proofreaders, often with extra-wide margins. Galley proofs may be uncut and unbound, or in some cases electronically transmitted. They are created for proofreading and copyediting purposes, but may also be used for promotional and review purposes.

Galley proofs or galleys are so named because in the days of hand-set letterpress printing in the 1650s, the printer would set the page into "galleys," metal trays into which type was laid and tightened into place. A small proof press would then be used to print a limited number of copies for proofreading. Galley proofs are thus, historically speaking, galleys printed on a proof press.

Wikipedia

sentence examples

“Galley proofs were once only used in the editing and proof-reading process.”

“The print type was kept in galley proofs and subject to continual updating until publication.”

“Galley proofs may be uncut and unbound, or in some cases electronically published.”

“Some publishers use paper galley proofs as advance copies, providing them to reviewers, magazines, and libraries in advance of final publication.”

Collins Dictionary