# Printing Glossary: Bleed, GSM, CMYK, NCR and More | Promax

> A simple glossary of printing words: bleed, gsm, CMYK, Pantone, dpi, die cut, lamination, NCR, MOQ and proof. Explained in plain English.

Source: https://promaxdigitaluae.com/help/printing-glossary/
Updated: 2026-10-06

---

1.  [Home](https://promaxdigitaluae.com/)
2.  [Guides](https://promaxdigitaluae.com/guides/)
3.  [Help center](https://promaxdigitaluae.com/help/)
4.  Printing glossary: simple meanings

Help center

# Printing glossary: simple meanings

This glossary explains common printing words in simple English, such as bleed, gsm, CMYK, Pantone, dpi, die cut, lamination, NCR, MOQ and proof.

Quick answer

This glossary explains common printing words in simple English, such as bleed, gsm, CMYK, Pantone, dpi, die cut, lamination, NCR, MOQ and proof.

Bleed

Extra background past the cut line, usually 3 mm. It prevents white edges.

GSM

Grams per square metre. It shows how thick or heavy paper is.

CMYK

Cyan, magenta, yellow and black. The four inks used in most printing.

Pantone

A colour matching system with numbered colours.

DPI

Dots per inch. A measure of image sharpness. Use 300 dpi for print.

Vector file

A logo file that can be made bigger without losing sharpness. Examples are AI, EPS and PDF.

Proof

A preview of your design for approval before printing.

Die cut

Cutting paper or card into a custom shape.

Lamination

A thin film on printed paper that protects it and changes the feel.

Spot UV

A shiny clear coat on selected parts of a design.

Foil stamping

Pressing a thin metallic layer onto paper for a shiny effect.

Emboss

A raised shape pressed into the paper.

NCR

No carbon required. Paper that copies writing to the sheet below.

MOQ

Minimum order quantity. The smallest number you can order.

Trim size

The final size after the print is cut.

Rigid box

A strong box made from thick board wrapped in printed paper.

FAQ

## Frequently asked questions

### What does MOQ mean?

MOQ means minimum order quantity. It is the smallest number of items you can order.

### What does NCR mean?

NCR means no carbon required. Each page copies onto the page below without carbon paper.

Free quote

## Ready to start?

Not sure? Send us your idea and we will guide you.

 [WhatsApp](https://wa.me/971527105556?text=Hi%20Promax%20Digital%2C%20I%20would%20like%20a%20quote%20for%20my%20printing%20project.)[ +971 52 710 5556](tel:+971527105556)

-   Free digital proof
-   Low minimums
-   Delivery across the UAE

## More guides

-   [How to prepare artwork for printing](https://promaxdigitaluae.com/help/prepare-artwork-for-printing/)
-   [How to place an order](https://promaxdigitaluae.com/help/how-to-place-an-order/)
-   [Paper types and weights (gsm)](https://promaxdigitaluae.com/help/paper-types-and-weights/)
-   [Printing finishes: lamination, UV, foil and emboss](https://promaxdigitaluae.com/help/printing-finishes-guide/)

## Tell us what you need. Get your quote today.

Share your product, size and quantity. We reply with a clear quote and a free digital proof.

 [WhatsApp us](https://wa.me/971527105556?text=Hi%20Promax%20Digital%2C%20I%20would%20like%20a%20quote%20for%20my%20printing%20project.) [ +971 52 710 5556](tel:+971527105556)