Why We Say “Xerox” Instead of Photocopy: The Real Words in Marathi and Hindi
Why We Say “Xerox” Instead of Photocopy: The Real Words in Marathi and Hindi
“Bhaiya, ek Xerox dena.” This line is so common across India that hardly anyone pauses to think about it. Whether in colleges, government offices, or local stationery shops, “Xerox” has become the default word for photocopy. But did you know Xerox isn’t the actual word for photocopy? In fact, it’s not even Indian in origin.
The story begins in 1938 when American inventor Chester Carlson created a new process called “xerography” to make document copies without messy inks or carbon paper. The word came from Greek — “xeros” meaning dry and “graphia” meaning writing. Later, a company named Haloid developed this technology further and launched the first plain-paper copier, the Xerox 914, in 1959. The machine was so successful that the company renamed itself Xerox Corporation. Soon, the brand name itself became a synonym for photocopy across the world.
India wasn’t an exception. Here, phrases like “Xerox kadh,” “Xerox kar,” or “ek Xerox dena” became part of everyday speech. Over time, most people forgot that Xerox was originally just a company name.
So, what’s the correct word? In Marathi, the proper term is “Chhayaprat” (from “Chhaya” meaning shadow/image and “Prat” meaning copy). A longer version is “Chhayachitraprati,” though it’s rarely used in daily life. In Hindi, the word is “Chhayaprati,” which carries the same meaning. While these are the official terms, you’ll rarely hear them outside textbooks or official documents.
Walk into a photocopy shop today and ask for a “Chhayaprat” — chances are the shopkeeper will be confused. Say “Xerox,” and you’ll get your copies right away. It’s short, simple, and universally understood.
This phenomenon is not unique. Many brand names have slipped into daily language — like Google for searching, Bisleri for bottled water, or Thermos for a vacuum flask. Xerox is another example of how a brand became so dominant that its name replaced the actual word.
So next time you ask for a “Xerox,” remember — you’re really asking for a “Chhayaprat” or “Chhayaprati.” And you’re also echoing the legacy of a company that revolutionized document copying worldwide.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only.
