Origin: Latin suffix -tion
Publication has 5 different meanings across 1 category:
a copy of a printed work offered for distribution
"The librarian carefully stamped each publication before placing it on the shelf for checkout."
the act of issuing printed materials
"The local library celebrated the publication of its new historical archive by hosting a special event for donors."
the communication of something to the public; making information generally known
"The official publication of the election results drew crowds onto the street."
the business of issuing printed matter for sale or distribution
"The magazine's financial troubles forced it to shut down its publication after thirty years in business."
The act of publishing printed or other matter.
"The publication of his new research paper was delayed due to a delay in peer review."
In plain English: Publication is when something like a book, article, or song is officially made available for people to read or hear.
"The publication was released on Monday morning."
Usage: Use "publication" to refer to a specific piece of written work like a book, newspaper, or article that has been made available to the public. Do not use it to describe the general process of publishing, which should be called "publishing."
The word comes from the Latin pūblicātiō, meaning "the act of making something public." It entered Middle English through Old French before arriving in its current form.