> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.sevenpens.com/drawtab/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.sevenpens.com/drawtab/misc/drawtab-history/chapter-2-terms.md).

# Chapter 2: Terms

## Etymology

The modern words we use for drawing tablets - draw, tablet, pen, and stylus - are also ancient.

**Tablet** comes to us from Latin **tabula** which had the senses of "a board", "plank", and very relevant for us "writing table". More here: <https://etymonline.com/word/table>

**Stylus** comes from Latin **stilus**, where it has the sense of a rod with a pointed end intended for writing or making marks. More here: <https://www.etymonline.com/word/stylus>

**Pen** comes from Latin **penna** meaning "feather". As you may remember, a feather being hollow when dipped into ink can be used as a writing device.

**Draw** is related to **drag**, and both come from Proto-Germanic *\*draganan*. The sense of these words comes from pulling something along. Even today, you can see the word "draw" used in ways that do not involve making pictures, but still reflect that pulling sense - "Sally draws water from a well," "the sheriff drew his gun," and "I had a blood sample drawn." More here: <https://www.etymonline.com/word/draw> and <https://www.etymonline.com/word/drag>.

## Pen vs stylus

There is no single right term. An equally good case can be made for either word. I prefer using "pen" over "stylus" for these reasons:

* It's a more common word
* Many drawing tablet brands use the word "pen." Example: Wacom Pro Pen 2 and Samsung S Pen.