platen

/ˈplætən/
noun
  1. The flat plate in a printing press that presses the paper against the inked type.
    • The printer carefully adjusted the platen to ensure even pressure on the page.
    • He cleaned the platen before starting the print run to avoid smudges.
    • Old letterpress machines use a heavy metal platen to transfer ink to paper.
  2. The roller in a typewriter or printer that holds the paper and moves it into position.
    • The printer's platen was worn out, causing the paper to feed unevenly.
    • He replaced the rubber platen on his vintage typewriter to restore its function.
    • She turned the platen knob to advance the paper to the next line.
  3. A flat plate in a machine that presses against something, such as in a laminator or embosser.
    • The technician checked the platen alignment to prevent uneven pressing.
    • The laminator's heated platen bonded the plastic film to the document.
    • In the embossing machine, the platen stamps the design into the leather.
What does "platen" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean