Definition

The portion of a printed ad design that extends beyond the trim edge to ensure no white borders appear after cutting. Because even paper guillotines need a margin of error.

Example Usage

Make sure that sunset gradient extends to full bleed, or we'll have an awkward white stripe along the magazine spine.

Origin

Printing industry terminology dating back centuries to bookbinding and lithography

Fun Fact

Standard bleed is usually 1/8 inch (3mm), but designers often build in extra bleed for peace of mind.

Source: Print advertising and design terminology

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See “bleed” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.

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