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authorGlenn Morris2009-07-03 01:35:56 +0000
committerGlenn Morris2009-07-03 01:35:56 +0000
commit07ee224d043fab2904aad446746aebef2a4ea24a (patch)
tree58bd873b715c66d2cd07e78c49c28833a0f4ae26
parent9f18817ff4f8dbc5f669df66f286a079c8fd7467 (diff)
downloademacs-07ee224d043fab2904aad446746aebef2a4ea24a.tar.gz
emacs-07ee224d043fab2904aad446746aebef2a4ea24a.zip
(Glossary): Minor phrasing changes throughout.
Add more internal cross-references. <Autoloading>: You can't really autoload a variable. <C-M->: Move details here from `M-C-' item. <Continuation Line>: Refer to `Truncation.' <Daemon, Free Software, Free Software Foundation, FSF, GNU>: <Home Directory, Unix>: New entries. <Deletion of Files>: Mention recycle bins. <Directory>: Mention ``folders.'' <Error>: Don't mention ``type-ahead.'' <Fringe>: Refer to the manual node. <Minor Mode>: Can be global or local. <Spell Checking>: There are other checkers besides Ispell.
-rw-r--r--doc/emacs/glossary.texi304
1 files changed, 180 insertions, 124 deletions
diff --git a/doc/emacs/glossary.texi b/doc/emacs/glossary.texi
index 70e0b0c0d71..1f3ee4d1f23 100644
--- a/doc/emacs/glossary.texi
+++ b/doc/emacs/glossary.texi
@@ -18,19 +18,19 @@ commands @kbd{C-]} and @kbd{M-x top-level} are used for this.
18@xref{Quitting}. 18@xref{Quitting}.
19 19
20@item Alt 20@item Alt
21Alt is the name of a modifier bit which a keyboard input character may 21Alt is the name of a modifier bit that a keyboard input character may
22have. To make a character Alt, type it while holding down the @key{ALT} 22have. To make a character Alt, type it while holding down the @key{ALT}
23key. Such characters are given names that start with @kbd{Alt-} 23key. Such characters are given names that start with @kbd{Alt-}
24(usually written @kbd{A-} for short). (Note that many terminals have a 24(usually written @kbd{A-} for short). (Note that many terminals have a
25key labeled @key{ALT} which is really a @key{META} key.) @xref{User 25key labeled @key{ALT} that is really a @key{META} key.) @xref{User
26Input, Alt}. 26Input, Alt}.
27 27
28@item Argument 28@item Argument
29See `numeric argument.' 29See `numeric argument.'
30 30
31@item @acronym{ASCII} character 31@item @acronym{ASCII} character
32An @acronym{ASCII} character is either an @acronym{ASCII} control character or an @acronym{ASCII} 32An @acronym{ASCII} character is either an @acronym{ASCII} control
33printing character. @xref{User Input}. 33character or an @acronym{ASCII} printing character. @xref{User Input}.
34 34
35@item @acronym{ASCII} control character 35@item @acronym{ASCII} control character
36An @acronym{ASCII} control character is the Control version of an upper-case 36An @acronym{ASCII} control character is the Control version of an upper-case
@@ -41,23 +41,24 @@ letter, or the Control version of one of the characters @samp{@@[\]^_?}.
41punctuation characters: @samp{!@@#$%^& *()_-+=|\~` @{@}[]:;"' <>,.?/}. 41punctuation characters: @samp{!@@#$%^& *()_-+=|\~` @{@}[]:;"' <>,.?/}.
42 42
43@item Auto Fill Mode 43@item Auto Fill Mode
44Auto Fill mode is a minor mode in which text that you insert is 44Auto Fill mode is a minor mode (q.v.@:) in which text that you insert is
45automatically broken into lines of a given maximum width. 45automatically broken into lines of a given maximum width.
46@xref{Filling}. 46@xref{Filling}.
47 47
48@item Auto Saving 48@item Auto Saving
49Auto saving is the practice of saving the contents of an Emacs buffer in 49Auto saving is the practice of periodically saving the contents of an
50a specially-named file, so that the information will not be lost if the 50Emacs buffer in a specially-named file, so that the information will
51buffer is lost due to a system error or user error. @xref{Auto Save}. 51be preserved if the buffer is lost due to a system error or user error.
52@xref{Auto Save}.
52 53
53@item Autoloading 54@item Autoloading
54Emacs automatically loads Lisp libraries when a Lisp program requests a 55Emacs can automatically load Lisp libraries when a Lisp program requests a
55function or a variable from those libraries. This is called 56function from those libraries. This is called `autoloading.'
56`autoloading'. @xref{Lisp Libraries}. 57@xref{Lisp Libraries}.
57 58
58@item Backtrace 59@item Backtrace
59A backtrace is a trace of a series of function calls showing how a 60A backtrace is a trace of a series of function calls showing how a
60program arrived to a certain point. It is used mainly for finding and 61program arrived at a certain point. It is used mainly for finding and
61correcting bugs (q.v.@:). Emacs can display a backtrace when it signals 62correcting bugs (q.v.@:). Emacs can display a backtrace when it signals
62an error or when you type @kbd{C-g} (see `quitting'). @xref{Checklist}. 63an error or when you type @kbd{C-g} (see `quitting'). @xref{Checklist}.
63 64
@@ -92,7 +93,7 @@ To bind a key sequence means to give it a binding (q.v.@:).
92 93
93@item Binding 94@item Binding
94A key sequence gets its meaning in Emacs by having a binding, which is a 95A key sequence gets its meaning in Emacs by having a binding, which is a
95command (q.v.@:), a Lisp function that is run when the user types that 96command (q.v.@:), a Lisp function that is run when you type that
96sequence. @xref{Commands,Binding}. Customization often involves 97sequence. @xref{Commands,Binding}. Customization often involves
97rebinding a character to a different command function. The bindings of 98rebinding a character to a different command function. The bindings of
98all key sequences are recorded in the keymaps (q.v.@:). @xref{Keymaps}. 99all key sequences are recorded in the keymaps (q.v.@:). @xref{Keymaps}.
@@ -110,17 +111,17 @@ persist between Emacs sessions.
110A border is a thin space along the edge of the frame, used just for 111A border is a thin space along the edge of the frame, used just for
111spacing, not for displaying anything. An Emacs frame has an ordinary 112spacing, not for displaying anything. An Emacs frame has an ordinary
112external border, outside of everything including the menu bar, plus an 113external border, outside of everything including the menu bar, plus an
113internal border that surrounds the text windows and their scroll bars 114internal border that surrounds the text windows, their scroll bars
114and separates them from the menu bar and tool bar. You can customize 115and fringes, and separates them from the menu bar and tool bar. You
115both borders with options and resources (@pxref{Borders X}). Borders 116can customize both borders with options and resources (@pxref{Borders
116are not the same as fringes (q.v.@:). 117X}). Borders are not the same as fringes (q.v.@:).
117 118
118@item Buffer 119@item Buffer
119The buffer is the basic editing unit; one buffer corresponds to one text 120The buffer is the basic editing unit; one buffer corresponds to one text
120being edited. You can have several buffers, but at any time you are 121being edited. You can have several buffers, but at any time you are
121editing only one, the `current buffer,' though several can be visible 122editing only one, the `current buffer,' though several can be visible
122when you are using multiple windows (q.v.@:). Most buffers are visiting 123when you are using multiple windows or frames (q.v.@:). Most buffers
123(q.v.@:) some file. @xref{Buffers}. 124are visiting (q.v.@:) some file. @xref{Buffers}.
124 125
125@item Buffer Selection History 126@item Buffer Selection History
126Emacs keeps a buffer selection history which records how recently each 127Emacs keeps a buffer selection history which records how recently each
@@ -134,8 +135,8 @@ reports, both in Emacs code and its documentation, very seriously and
134ask you to report any bugs you find. @xref{Bugs}. 135ask you to report any bugs you find. @xref{Bugs}.
135 136
136@item Button Down Event 137@item Button Down Event
137A button down event is the kind of input event generated right away when 138A button down event is the kind of input event (q.v.@:) generated
138you press down on a mouse button. @xref{Mouse Buttons}. 139right away when you press down on a mouse button. @xref{Mouse Buttons}.
139 140
140@item By Default 141@item By Default
141See `default.' 142See `default.'
@@ -149,7 +150,9 @@ See `compilation.'
149 150
150@item @kbd{C-M-} 151@item @kbd{C-M-}
151@kbd{C-M-} in the name of a character is an abbreviation for 152@kbd{C-M-} in the name of a character is an abbreviation for
152Control-Meta. @xref{User Input,C-M-}. 153Control-Meta. If your terminal lacks a real @key{META} key, you type
154a Control-Meta character by typing @key{ESC} and then typing the
155corresponding Control character. @xref{User Input,C-M-}.
153 156
154@item Case Conversion 157@item Case Conversion
155Case conversion means changing text from upper case to lower case or 158Case conversion means changing text from upper case to lower case or
@@ -168,8 +171,9 @@ particular alphabet or script. @xref{International}.
168See `text-only terminal.' 171See `text-only terminal.'
169 172
170@item Click Event 173@item Click Event
171A click event is the kind of input event generated when you press a 174A click event is the kind of input event (q.v.@:) generated when you
172mouse button and release it without moving the mouse. @xref{Mouse Buttons}. 175press a mouse button and release it without moving the mouse.
176@xref{Mouse Buttons}.
173 177
174@item Clipboard 178@item Clipboard
175A clipboard is a buffer provided by the window system for transferring 179A clipboard is a buffer provided by the window system for transferring
@@ -200,7 +204,7 @@ A command name is the name of a Lisp symbol which is a command
200 204
201@item Comment 205@item Comment
202A comment is text in a program which is intended only for humans reading 206A comment is text in a program which is intended only for humans reading
203the program, and which is marked specially so that it will be ignored 207the program, and which is specially marked so that it will be ignored
204when the program is loaded or compiled. Emacs offers special commands 208when the program is loaded or compiled. Emacs offers special commands
205for creating, aligning and killing comments. @xref{Comments}. 209for creating, aligning and killing comments. @xref{Comments}.
206 210
@@ -226,19 +230,20 @@ conventionally bound to a command to begin composing a mail message.
226@xref{Keys}. 230@xref{Keys}.
227 231
228@item Completion 232@item Completion
229Completion is what Emacs does when it automatically fills out an 233Completion is what Emacs does when it automatically expands an
230abbreviation for a name into the entire name. Completion is done for 234abbreviation for a name into the entire name. Completion is done for
231minibuffer (q.v.@:) arguments when the set of possible valid inputs 235minibuffer (q.v.@:) arguments when the set of possible valid inputs
232is known; for example, on command names, buffer names, and 236is known; for example, on command names, buffer names, and
233file names. Completion occurs when @key{TAB}, @key{SPC} or @key{RET} 237file names. Completion usually occurs when @key{TAB}, @key{SPC} or
234is typed. @xref{Completion}.@refill 238@key{RET} is typed. @xref{Completion}.@refill
235 239
236@item Continuation Line 240@item Continuation Line
237When a line of text is longer than the width of the window, it 241When a line of text is longer than the width of the window, it
238takes up more than one screen line when displayed. We say that the 242normally (but see `Truncation') takes up more than one screen line
239text line is continued, and all screen lines used for it after the 243when displayed. We say that the text line is continued, and all
240first are called continuation lines. @xref{Continuation Lines}. 244screen lines used for it after the first are called continuation
241A related Emacs feature is `filling' (q.v.@:). 245lines. @xref{Continuation Lines}. A related Emacs feature is
246`filling' (q.v.@:).
242 247
243@item Control Character 248@item Control Character
244A control character is a character that you type by holding down the 249A control character is a character that you type by holding down the
@@ -259,7 +264,7 @@ GNU General Public License. @xref{Copying}.
259 264
260@item @key{CTRL} 265@item @key{CTRL}
261The @key{CTRL} or ``control'' key is what you hold down 266The @key{CTRL} or ``control'' key is what you hold down
262in order to enter a control character (q.v.). 267in order to enter a control character (q.v.). See also `@kbd{C-}.'
263 268
264@item Current Buffer 269@item Current Buffer
265The current buffer in Emacs is the Emacs buffer on which most editing 270The current buffer in Emacs is the Emacs buffer on which most editing
@@ -281,21 +286,28 @@ between defuns, the current defun is the one that follows point.
281 286
282@item Cursor 287@item Cursor
283The cursor is the rectangle on the screen which indicates the position 288The cursor is the rectangle on the screen which indicates the position
284called point (q.v.@:) at which insertion and deletion takes place. 289(called point; q.v.@:) at which insertion and deletion takes place.
285The cursor is on or under the character that follows point. Often 290The cursor is on or under the character that follows point. Often
286people speak of `the cursor' when, strictly speaking, they mean 291people speak of `the cursor' when, strictly speaking, they mean
287`point.' @xref{Point,Cursor}. 292`point.' @xref{Point,Cursor}.
288 293
289@item Customization 294@item Customization
290Customization is making minor changes in the way Emacs works. It is 295Customization is making minor changes in the way Emacs works, to
291often done by setting variables (@pxref{Variables}) or faces 296reflect your preferences or needs. It is often done by setting
292(@pxref{Face Customization}), or by rebinding key sequences 297variables (@pxref{Variables}) or faces (@pxref{Face Customization}),
293(@pxref{Keymaps}). 298or by rebinding key sequences (@pxref{Keymaps}).
294 299
295@cindex cut and paste 300@cindex cut and paste
296@item Cut and Paste 301@item Cut and Paste
297See `killing' and `yanking.' 302See `killing' and `yanking.'
298 303
304@item Daemon
305A daemon is a standard term for a Unix process that runs in the
306background. Daemons are often started when the system first starts up.
307When Emacs runs in daemon-mode, it runs in the background and does not
308open a display. You can then connect to it with the
309@command{emacsclient} program. @xref{Emacs Server}.
310
299@item Default Argument 311@item Default Argument
300The default for an argument is the value that will be assumed if you 312The default for an argument is the value that will be assumed if you
301do not specify one. When the minibuffer is used to read an argument, 313do not specify one. When the minibuffer is used to read an argument,
@@ -330,21 +342,26 @@ Deletion means erasing text without copying it into the kill ring
330 342
331@item Deletion of Files 343@item Deletion of Files
332Deleting a file means erasing it from the file system. 344Deleting a file means erasing it from the file system.
345(Note that some systems use the concept of a ``trash can'', or ``recycle
346bin'', to allow you to ``undelete'' files.)
333@xref{Misc File Ops,Misc File Ops,Miscellaneous File Operations}. 347@xref{Misc File Ops,Misc File Ops,Miscellaneous File Operations}.
334 348
335@item Deletion of Messages 349@item Deletion of Messages
336Deleting a message means flagging it to be eliminated from your mail 350Deleting a message (in Rmail, and other mail clients) means flagging
337file. Until you expunge (q.v.@:) the Rmail file, you can still undelete 351it to be eliminated from your mail file. Until you expunge (q.v.@:)
338the messages you have deleted. @xref{Rmail Deletion}. 352the Rmail file, you can still undelete the messages you have deleted.
353@xref{Rmail Deletion}.
339 354
340@item Deletion of Windows 355@item Deletion of Windows
341Deleting a window means eliminating it from the screen. Other windows 356Deleting a window means eliminating it from the screen. Other windows
342expand to use up the space. The deleted window can never come back, 357expand to use up the space. The text that was in the window is not
343but no actual text is thereby lost. @xref{Windows}. 358lost, and you can create a new window with the same dimensions as the
359old if you wish. @xref{Windows}.
344 360
345@item Directory 361@item Directory
346File directories are named collections in the file system, within which 362File directories are named collections in the file system, within which
347you can place individual files or subdirectories. @xref{Directories}. 363you can place individual files or subdirectories. They are sometimes
364referred to as ``folders.'' @xref{Directories}.
348 365
349@item Dired 366@item Dired
350Dired is the Emacs facility that displays the contents of a file 367Dired is the Emacs facility that displays the contents of a file
@@ -360,13 +377,13 @@ confusing for beginning users. @xref{Disabling}.
360Short for `button down event' (q.v.@:). 377Short for `button down event' (q.v.@:).
361 378
362@item Drag Event 379@item Drag Event
363A drag event is the kind of input event generated when you press a mouse 380A drag event is the kind of input event (q.v.@:) generated when you
364button, move the mouse, and then release the button. @xref{Mouse 381press a mouse button, move the mouse, and then release the button.
365Buttons}. 382@xref{Mouse Buttons}.
366 383
367@item Dribble File 384@item Dribble File
368A dribble file is a file into which Emacs writes all the characters that 385A dribble file is a file into which Emacs writes all the characters that
369you type on the keyboard. Dribble files are used to make a record 386you type on the keyboard. Dribble files can be used to make a record
370for debugging Emacs bugs. Emacs does not make a dribble file unless you 387for debugging Emacs bugs. Emacs does not make a dribble file unless you
371tell it to. @xref{Bugs}. 388tell it to. @xref{Bugs}.
372 389
@@ -386,7 +403,7 @@ them.
386We say that a character is electric if it is normally self-inserting 403We say that a character is electric if it is normally self-inserting
387(q.v.@:), but the current major mode (q.v.@:) redefines it to do something 404(q.v.@:), but the current major mode (q.v.@:) redefines it to do something
388else as well. For example, some programming language major modes define 405else as well. For example, some programming language major modes define
389particular delimiter characters to reindent the line or insert one or 406particular delimiter characters to reindent the line, or insert one or
390more newlines in addition to self-insertion. 407more newlines in addition to self-insertion.
391 408
392@item End Of Line 409@item End Of Line
@@ -410,14 +427,16 @@ See `end of line.'
410An error occurs when an Emacs command cannot execute in the current 427An error occurs when an Emacs command cannot execute in the current
411circumstances. When an error occurs, execution of the command stops 428circumstances. When an error occurs, execution of the command stops
412(unless the command has been programmed to do otherwise) and Emacs 429(unless the command has been programmed to do otherwise) and Emacs
413reports the error by displaying an error message (q.v.@:). Type-ahead 430reports the error by displaying an error message (q.v.@:).
414is discarded. Then Emacs is ready to read another editing command. 431@c Not helpful?
432@c Type-ahead is discarded. Then Emacs is ready to read another
433@c editing command.
415 434
416@item Error Message 435@item Error Message
417An error message is a single line of output displayed by Emacs when the 436An error message is output displayed by Emacs when you ask it to do
418user asks for something impossible to do (such as, killing text 437something impossible (such as, killing text forward when point is at
419forward when point is at the end of the buffer). They appear in the 438the end of the buffer), or when a command malfunctions in some way.
420echo area, accompanied by a beep. 439Such messages appear in the echo area, accompanied by a beep.
421 440
422@item @key{ESC} 441@item @key{ESC}
423@key{ESC} is a character used as a prefix for typing Meta characters on 442@key{ESC} is a character used as a prefix for typing Meta characters on
@@ -430,9 +449,9 @@ it applies to the next character you type.
430See `balanced expression.' 449See `balanced expression.'
431 450
432@item Expunging 451@item Expunging
433Expunging an Rmail file or Dired buffer or a Gnus newsgroup buffer is an 452Expunging an Rmail, Gnus newsgroup, or Dired buffer is an operation
434operation that truly discards the messages or files you have previously 453that truly discards the messages or files you have previously flagged
435flagged for deletion. 454for deletion.
436 455
437@item Face 456@item Face
438A face is a style of displaying characters. It specifies attributes 457A face is a style of displaying characters. It specifies attributes
@@ -453,7 +472,7 @@ directory, but an absolute file name refers to the same file regardless
453of which directory is current. On GNU and Unix systems, an absolute 472of which directory is current. On GNU and Unix systems, an absolute
454file name starts with a slash (the root directory) or with @samp{~/} or 473file name starts with a slash (the root directory) or with @samp{~/} or
455@samp{~@var{user}/} (a home directory). On MS-Windows/MS-DOS, an 474@samp{~@var{user}/} (a home directory). On MS-Windows/MS-DOS, an
456absolute file name can also start with a drive letter and a colon 475absolute file name can also start with a drive letter and a colon, e.g.
457@samp{@var{d}:}. 476@samp{@var{d}:}.
458 477
459Some people use the term ``pathname'' for file names, but we do not; 478Some people use the term ``pathname'' for file names, but we do not;
@@ -474,13 +493,15 @@ of each line when filling is done. It is not regarded as part of the
474text to be filled. @xref{Filling}. 493text to be filled. @xref{Filling}.
475 494
476@item Filling 495@item Filling
477Filling text means shifting text between consecutive lines so that all 496Filling text means adjusting the position of line-breaks to shift text
478the lines are approximately the same length. @xref{Filling}. Some 497between consecutive lines, so that all the lines are approximately the
479other editors call this feature `line wrapping.' 498same length. @xref{Filling}. Some other editors call this feature
499`line wrapping.'
480 500
481@item Font Lock 501@item Font Lock
482Font Lock is a mode that highlights parts of buffer text according to 502Font Lock is a mode that highlights parts of buffer text in different
483its syntax. @xref{Font Lock}. 503faces, according to the syntax. For example, all comments (q.v.@:)
504might be colored red. @xref{Font Lock}.
484 505
485@item Fontset 506@item Fontset
486A fontset is a named collection of fonts. A fontset specification lists 507A fontset is a named collection of fonts. A fontset specification lists
@@ -500,19 +521,34 @@ See `page.'
500A frame is a rectangular cluster of Emacs windows. Emacs starts out 521A frame is a rectangular cluster of Emacs windows. Emacs starts out
501with one frame, but you can create more. You can subdivide each frame 522with one frame, but you can create more. You can subdivide each frame
502into Emacs windows (q.v.@:). When you are using a window system 523into Emacs windows (q.v.@:). When you are using a window system
503(q.v.@:), all the frames can be visible at the same time. 524(q.v.@:), more than one frame can be visible at the same time.
504@xref{Frames}. Some other editors use the term ``window'' for this, 525@xref{Frames}. Some other editors use the term ``window'' for this,
505but in Emacs a window means something else. 526but in Emacs a window means something else.
506 527
528@item Free Software
529Free software is software that gives you the freedom to share, study
530and modify it. Emacs is free software, part of the GNU project
531(q.v.@:), and distributed under a copyleft (q.v.@:) license called the
532GNU General Public License. @xref{Copying}.
533
534@item Free Software Foundation
535The Free Software Foundation (FSF) is a charitable foundation
536dedicated to promoting the development of free software (q.v.@:).
537For more information, see @uref{http://fsf.org/, the FSF website}.
538
507@item Fringe 539@item Fringe
508On a graphical display (q.v.@:), there's a narrow portion of the 540On a graphical display (q.v.@:), there's a narrow portion of the frame
509frame (q.v.@:) between the text area and the window's border. Emacs 541(q.v.@:) between the text area and the window's border. These
510displays the fringe using a special face (q.v.@:) called 542`fringes' are used to display symbols that provide information about
511@code{fringe}. @xref{Faces,fringe}. 543the buffer text (@pxref{Fringes}). Emacs displays the fringe using a
544special face (q.v.@:) called @code{fringe}. @xref{Faces,fringe}.
545
546@item FSF
547See `Free Software Foundation.'
512 548
513@item FTP 549@item FTP
514FTP is an acronym for File Transfer Protocol. Emacs uses an FTP client 550FTP is an acronym for File Transfer Protocol. This is one standard
515program to provide access to remote files (q.v.@:). 551method for retrieving remote files (q.v.@:).
516 552
517@item Function Key 553@item Function Key
518A function key is a key on the keyboard that sends input but does not 554A function key is a key on the keyboard that sends input but does not
@@ -530,13 +566,13 @@ modes that do not have local (q.v.@:) definitions for the same abbrev.
530 566
531@item Global Keymap 567@item Global Keymap
532The global keymap (q.v.@:) contains key bindings that are in effect 568The global keymap (q.v.@:) contains key bindings that are in effect
533except when overridden by local key bindings in a major mode's local 569everywhere, except when overridden by local key bindings in a major
534keymap (q.v.@:). @xref{Keymaps}. 570mode's local keymap (q.v.@:). @xref{Keymaps}.
535 571
536@item Global Mark Ring 572@item Global Mark Ring
537The global mark ring records the series of buffers you have recently 573The global mark ring records the series of buffers you have recently
538set a mark (q.v.@:) in. In many cases you can use this to backtrack 574set a mark (q.v.@:) in. In many cases you can use this to backtrack
539through buffers you have been editing in, or in which you have found 575through buffers you have been editing, or in which you have found
540tags (see `tags table'). @xref{Global Mark Ring}. 576tags (see `tags table'). @xref{Global Mark Ring}.
541 577
542@item Global Substitution 578@item Global Substitution
@@ -548,6 +584,12 @@ The global value of a variable (q.v.@:) takes effect in all buffers
548that do not have their own local (q.v.@:) values for the variable. 584that do not have their own local (q.v.@:) values for the variable.
549@xref{Variables}. 585@xref{Variables}.
550 586
587@item GNU
588GNU is a recursive acronym for GNU's Not Unix. The GNU project aims
589to develop a complete operating system that is free software (q.v.@:).
590@xref{Manifesto}. For more information, see
591@uref{http://www.gnu.org/, the GNU website}.
592
551@item Graphic Character 593@item Graphic Character
552Graphic characters are those assigned pictorial images rather than 594Graphic characters are those assigned pictorial images rather than
553just names. All the non-Meta (q.v.@:) characters except for the 595just names. All the non-Meta (q.v.@:) characters except for the
@@ -567,12 +609,11 @@ buffer.
567 609
568Emacs uses highlighting in several ways. It highlights the region 610Emacs uses highlighting in several ways. It highlights the region
569whenever it is active (@pxref{Mark}). Incremental search also 611whenever it is active (@pxref{Mark}). Incremental search also
570highlights matches (@pxref{Incremental Search}). See also `font 612highlights matches (@pxref{Incremental Search}). See also `font lock.'
571lock'.
572 613
573@item Hardcopy 614@item Hardcopy
574Hardcopy means printed output. Emacs has commands for making printed 615Hardcopy means printed output. Emacs has various commands for
575listings of text in Emacs buffers. @xref{Printing}. 616printing the contents of Emacs buffers. @xref{Printing}.
576 617
577@item @key{HELP} 618@item @key{HELP}
578@key{HELP} is the Emacs name for @kbd{C-h} or @key{F1}. You can type 619@key{HELP} is the Emacs name for @kbd{C-h} or @key{F1}. You can type
@@ -580,12 +621,20 @@ listings of text in Emacs buffers. @xref{Printing}.
580command does. @xref{Help}. 621command does. @xref{Help}.
581 622
582@item Help Echo 623@item Help Echo
583Help echo is a short message displayed in the echo area when the mouse 624Help echo is a short message displayed in the echo area (q.v.@:) when
584pointer is located on portions of display that require some 625the mouse pointer is located on portions of display that require some
585explanations. Emacs displays help echo for menu items, parts of the 626explanations. Emacs displays help echo for menu items, parts of the
586mode line, tool-bar buttons, etc. On graphics displays, the messages 627mode line, tool-bar buttons, etc. On graphics displays, the messages
587can be displayed as tooltips (q.v.@:). @xref{Tooltips}. 628can be displayed as tooltips (q.v.@:). @xref{Tooltips}.
588 629
630@item Home Directory
631Your home directory contains your personal files. On a multi-user GNU
632or Unix system, each user has his or her own home directory. When you
633start a new login session, your home directory is the default
634directory in which to start. A standard shorthand for your home
635directory is @samp{~}. Similarly, @samp{~@var{user}} represents the
636home directory of some other user.
637
589@item Hook 638@item Hook
590A hook is a list of functions to be called on specific occasions, such 639A hook is a list of functions to be called on specific occasions, such
591as saving a buffer in a file, major mode activation, etc. By 640as saving a buffer in a file, major mode activation, etc. By
@@ -593,11 +642,10 @@ customizing the various hooks, you can modify Emacs's behavior without
593changing any of its code. @xref{Hooks}. 642changing any of its code. @xref{Hooks}.
594 643
595@item Hyper 644@item Hyper
596Hyper is the name of a modifier bit which a keyboard input character may 645Hyper is the name of a modifier bit that a keyboard input character may
597have. To make a character Hyper, type it while holding down the 646have. To make a character Hyper, type it while holding down the
598@key{HYPER} key. Such characters are given names that start with 647@key{HYPER} key. Such characters are given names that start with
599@kbd{Hyper-} (usually written @kbd{H-} for short). @xref{User Input, 648@kbd{Hyper-} (usually written @kbd{H-} for short). @xref{User Input}.
600Hyper}.
601 649
602@item Iff 650@item Iff
603``Iff'' means ``if and only if.'' This terminology comes from 651``Iff'' means ``if and only if.'' This terminology comes from
@@ -611,8 +659,9 @@ mail is then stored permanently or until explicitly deleted.
611@xref{Rmail Inbox}. 659@xref{Rmail Inbox}.
612 660
613@item Incremental Search 661@item Incremental Search
614Emacs provides an incremental search facility, whereby Emacs searches 662Emacs provides an incremental search facility, whereby Emacs begins
615for the string as you type it. @xref{Incremental Search}. 663searching for a string as soon as you type the first character.
664As you type more characters, it refines the search. @xref{Incremental Search}.
616 665
617@item Indentation 666@item Indentation
618Indentation means blank space at the beginning of a line. Most 667Indentation means blank space at the beginning of a line. Most
@@ -640,7 +689,7 @@ An input method is a system for entering non-@acronym{ASCII} text characters by
640typing sequences of @acronym{ASCII} characters (q.v.@:). @xref{Input Methods}. 689typing sequences of @acronym{ASCII} characters (q.v.@:). @xref{Input Methods}.
641 690
642@item Insertion 691@item Insertion
643Insertion means copying text into the buffer, either from the keyboard 692Insertion means adding text into the buffer, either from the keyboard
644or from some other place in Emacs. 693or from some other place in Emacs.
645 694
646@item Interlocking 695@item Interlocking
@@ -652,8 +701,8 @@ that someone else is already editing.
652See `incremental search.' 701See `incremental search.'
653 702
654@item Justification 703@item Justification
655Justification means adding extra spaces within lines of text to make 704Justification means adding extra spaces within lines of text
656them extend exactly to a specified width. 705in order to adjust the position of the text edges.
657@xref{Format Justification}. 706@xref{Format Justification}.
658 707
659@item Key Binding 708@item Key Binding
@@ -662,6 +711,8 @@ See `binding.'
662@item Keyboard Macro 711@item Keyboard Macro
663Keyboard macros are a way of defining new Emacs commands from 712Keyboard macros are a way of defining new Emacs commands from
664sequences of existing ones, with no need to write a Lisp program. 713sequences of existing ones, with no need to write a Lisp program.
714You can use a macro to record a sequence of commands, then
715play them back as many times as you like.
665@xref{Keyboard Macros}. 716@xref{Keyboard Macros}.
666 717
667@cindex keyboard shortcuts 718@cindex keyboard shortcuts
@@ -706,15 +757,15 @@ to exist. Any data within it, if not saved in a file, is lost.
706@item Language Environment 757@item Language Environment
707Your choice of language environment specifies defaults for the input 758Your choice of language environment specifies defaults for the input
708method (q.v.@:) and coding system (q.v.@:). @xref{Language 759method (q.v.@:) and coding system (q.v.@:). @xref{Language
709Environments}. These defaults are relevant if you edit non-@acronym{ASCII} text 760Environments}. These defaults are relevant if you edit
710(@pxref{International}). 761non-@acronym{ASCII} text (@pxref{International}).
711 762
712@item Line Wrapping 763@item Line Wrapping
713See `filling.' 764See `filling.'
714 765
715@item Lisp 766@item Lisp
716Lisp is a programming language. Most of Emacs is written in a dialect 767Lisp is a programming language. Most of Emacs is written in a dialect
717of Lisp, called Emacs Lisp, that is extended with special features which 768of Lisp, called Emacs Lisp, which is extended with special features that
718make it especially suitable for text editing tasks. 769make it especially suitable for text editing tasks.
719 770
720@item List 771@item List
@@ -752,13 +803,10 @@ one of the modifier keys that can accompany any character.
752 803
753@item @kbd{M-C-} 804@item @kbd{M-C-}
754@kbd{M-C-} in the name of a character is an abbreviation for 805@kbd{M-C-} in the name of a character is an abbreviation for
755Control-Meta; it means the same thing as @kbd{C-M-}. If your 806Control-Meta; it means the same thing as `@kbd{C-M-}' (q.v.@:).
756terminal lacks a real @key{META} key, you type a Control-Meta character by
757typing @key{ESC} and then typing the corresponding Control character.
758@xref{User Input,C-M-}.
759 807
760@item @kbd{M-x} 808@item @kbd{M-x}
761@kbd{M-x} is the key sequence which is used to call an Emacs command by 809@kbd{M-x} is the key sequence that is used to call an Emacs command by
762name. This is how you run commands that are not bound to key sequences. 810name. This is how you run commands that are not bound to key sequences.
763@xref{M-x,M-x,Running Commands by Name}. 811@xref{M-x,M-x,Running Commands by Name}.
764 812
@@ -766,7 +814,8 @@ name. This is how you run commands that are not bound to key sequences.
766Mail means messages sent from one user to another through the computer 814Mail means messages sent from one user to another through the computer
767system, to be read at the recipient's convenience. Emacs has commands for 815system, to be read at the recipient's convenience. Emacs has commands for
768composing and sending mail, and for reading and editing the mail you have 816composing and sending mail, and for reading and editing the mail you have
769received. @xref{Sending Mail}. @xref{Rmail}, for how to read mail. 817received. @xref{Sending Mail}. @xref{Rmail}, for one way to read
818mail with Emacs.
770 819
771@item Mail Composition Method 820@item Mail Composition Method
772A mail composition method is a program runnable within Emacs for editing 821A mail composition method is a program runnable within Emacs for editing
@@ -795,7 +844,7 @@ own mark ring; in addition, there is a single global mark ring (q.v.@:).
795@xref{Mark Ring}. 844@xref{Mark Ring}.
796 845
797@item Menu Bar 846@item Menu Bar
798The menu bar is the line at the top of an Emacs frame. It contains 847The menu bar is a line at the top of an Emacs frame. It contains
799words you can click on with the mouse to bring up menus, or you can use 848words you can click on with the mouse to bring up menus, or you can use
800a keyboard interface to navigate it. @xref{Menu Bars}. 849a keyboard interface to navigate it. @xref{Menu Bars}.
801 850
@@ -831,7 +880,8 @@ again. @xref{Minibuffer History}.
831@item Minor Mode 880@item Minor Mode
832A minor mode is an optional feature of Emacs which can be switched on 881A minor mode is an optional feature of Emacs which can be switched on
833or off independently of all other features. Each minor mode has a 882or off independently of all other features. Each minor mode has a
834command to turn it on or off. @xref{Minor Modes}. 883command to turn it on or off. Some minor modes are global (q.v.@:),
884and some are local (q.v.@:). @xref{Minor Modes}.
835 885
836@item Minor Mode Keymap 886@item Minor Mode Keymap
837A minor mode keymap is a keymap that belongs to a minor mode and is 887A minor mode keymap is a keymap that belongs to a minor mode and is
@@ -846,7 +896,7 @@ Line}.
846 896
847@item Modified Buffer 897@item Modified Buffer
848A buffer (q.v.@:) is modified if its text has been changed since the 898A buffer (q.v.@:) is modified if its text has been changed since the
849last time the buffer was saved (or since when it was created, if it 899last time the buffer was saved (or since it was created, if it
850has never been saved). @xref{Saving}. 900has never been saved). @xref{Saving}.
851 901
852@item Moving Text 902@item Moving Text
@@ -855,8 +905,9 @@ another. The usual way to move text is by killing (q.v.@:) it and then
855yanking (q.v.@:) it. @xref{Killing}. 905yanking (q.v.@:) it. @xref{Killing}.
856 906
857@item MULE 907@item MULE
858MULE refers to the Emacs features for editing multilingual non-@acronym{ASCII} text 908MULE refers to the Emacs features for editing multilingual
859using multibyte characters (q.v.@:). @xref{International}. 909non-@acronym{ASCII} text using multibyte characters (q.v.@:).
910@xref{International}.
860 911
861@item Multibyte Character 912@item Multibyte Character
862A multibyte character is a character that takes up several bytes in a 913A multibyte character is a character that takes up several bytes in a
@@ -871,14 +922,14 @@ location in text so that you can move point to that location.
871 922
872@item Narrowing 923@item Narrowing
873Narrowing means creating a restriction (q.v.@:) that limits editing in 924Narrowing means creating a restriction (q.v.@:) that limits editing in
874the current buffer to only a part of the text in the buffer. Text 925the current buffer to only a part of the text. Text outside that part
875outside that part is inaccessible for editing until the boundaries are 926is inaccessible for editing (or viewing) until the boundaries are
876widened again, but it is still there, and saving the file saves it 927widened again, but it is still there, and saving the file saves it
877all. @xref{Narrowing}. 928all. @xref{Narrowing}.
878 929
879@item Newline 930@item Newline
880Control-J characters in the buffer terminate lines of text and are 931Control-J characters in the buffer terminate lines of text and are
881therefore also called newlines. 932therefore also called newlines. See `End of Line.'
882 933
883@cindex nil 934@cindex nil
884@cindex t 935@cindex t
@@ -941,10 +992,10 @@ The Emacs kill commands set the primary selection and the yank command
941uses the primary selection when appropriate. @xref{Killing}. 992uses the primary selection when appropriate. @xref{Killing}.
942 993
943@item Prompt 994@item Prompt
944A prompt is text used to ask the user for input. Displaying a prompt 995A prompt is text used to ask you for input. Displaying a prompt
945is called prompting. Emacs prompts always appear in the echo area 996is called prompting. Emacs prompts always appear in the echo area
946(q.v.@:). One kind of prompting happens when the minibuffer is used to 997(q.v.@:). One kind of prompting happens when the minibuffer is used to
947read an argument (@pxref{Minibuffer}); the echoing which happens when 998read an argument (@pxref{Minibuffer}); the echoing that happens when
948you pause in the middle of typing a multi-character key sequence is also 999you pause in the middle of typing a multi-character key sequence is also
949a kind of prompting (@pxref{Echo Area}). 1000a kind of prompting (@pxref{Echo Area}).
950 1001
@@ -1003,7 +1054,7 @@ The region is the text between point (q.v.@:) and the mark (q.v.@:).
1003Many commands operate on the text of the region. @xref{Mark,Region}. 1054Many commands operate on the text of the region. @xref{Mark,Region}.
1004 1055
1005@item Register 1056@item Register
1006Registers are named slots in which text or buffer positions or 1057Registers are named slots in which text, buffer positions, or
1007rectangles can be saved for later use. @xref{Registers}. A related 1058rectangles can be saved for later use. @xref{Registers}. A related
1008Emacs feature is `bookmarks' (q.v.@:). 1059Emacs feature is `bookmarks' (q.v.@:).
1009 1060
@@ -1041,7 +1092,7 @@ Reverting means returning to the original state. Emacs lets you
1041revert a buffer by re-reading its file from disk. @xref{Reverting}. 1092revert a buffer by re-reading its file from disk. @xref{Reverting}.
1042 1093
1043@item Rmail File 1094@item Rmail File
1044An Rmail file is a file containing text in a special format used by 1095An Rmail file is a file containing text in the format used by
1045Rmail for storing mail. @xref{Rmail}. 1096Rmail for storing mail. @xref{Rmail}.
1046 1097
1047@item Saving 1098@item Saving
@@ -1070,7 +1121,7 @@ files for certain purposes. For example, the variable @code{load-path}
1070holds a search path for finding Lisp library files. @xref{Lisp Libraries}. 1121holds a search path for finding Lisp library files. @xref{Lisp Libraries}.
1071 1122
1072@item Secondary Selection 1123@item Secondary Selection
1073The secondary selection is one particular X selection; some X 1124The secondary selection is one particular X selection (q.v.@:); some X
1074applications can use it for transferring text to and from other 1125applications can use it for transferring text to and from other
1075applications. Emacs has special mouse commands for transferring text 1126applications. Emacs has special mouse commands for transferring text
1076using the secondary selection. @xref{Secondary Selection}. 1127using the secondary selection. @xref{Secondary Selection}.
@@ -1096,7 +1147,7 @@ work with the primary (q.v.@:) selection and the secondary (q.v.@:)
1096selection, and also with the clipboard (q.v.@:). 1147selection, and also with the clipboard (q.v.@:).
1097 1148
1098@item Self-Documentation 1149@item Self-Documentation
1099Self-documentation is the feature of Emacs which can tell you what any 1150Self-documentation is the feature of Emacs that can tell you what any
1100command does, or give you a list of all commands related to a topic 1151command does, or give you a list of all commands related to a topic
1101you specify. You ask for self-documentation with the help character, 1152you specify. You ask for self-documentation with the help character,
1102@kbd{C-h}. @xref{Help}. 1153@kbd{C-h}. @xref{Help}.
@@ -1135,9 +1186,9 @@ interesting parts of text within Emacs. @xref{Speedbar}.
1135 1186
1136@item Spell Checking 1187@item Spell Checking
1137Spell checking means checking correctness of the written form of each 1188Spell checking means checking correctness of the written form of each
1138one of the words in a text. Emacs uses the Ispell spelling-checker 1189one of the words in a text. Emacs can use various external
1139program to check the spelling of parts of a buffer via a convenient user 1190spelling-checker programs to check the spelling of parts of a buffer
1140interface. @xref{Spelling}. 1191via a convenient user interface. @xref{Spelling}.
1141 1192
1142@item String 1193@item String
1143A string is a kind of Lisp data object which contains a sequence of 1194A string is a kind of Lisp data object which contains a sequence of
@@ -1152,7 +1203,7 @@ inside the string; however, backslash sequences as in C, such as
1152allowed as well. 1203allowed as well.
1153 1204
1154@item String Substitution 1205@item String Substitution
1155See `global substitution'. 1206See `global substitution.'
1156 1207
1157@item Syntax Highlighting 1208@item Syntax Highlighting
1158See `font lock.' 1209See `font lock.'
@@ -1163,11 +1214,10 @@ which characters balance each other like parentheses, etc.
1163@xref{Syntax}. 1214@xref{Syntax}.
1164 1215
1165@item Super 1216@item Super
1166Super is the name of a modifier bit which a keyboard input character may 1217Super is the name of a modifier bit that a keyboard input character may
1167have. To make a character Super, type it while holding down the 1218have. To make a character Super, type it while holding down the
1168@key{SUPER} key. Such characters are given names that start with 1219@key{SUPER} key. Such characters are given names that start with
1169@kbd{Super-} (usually written @kbd{s-} for short). @xref{User Input, 1220@kbd{Super-} (usually written @kbd{s-} for short). @xref{User Input}.
1170Super}.
1171 1221
1172@item Suspending 1222@item Suspending
1173Suspending Emacs means stopping it temporarily and returning control 1223Suspending Emacs means stopping it temporarily and returning control
@@ -1199,7 +1249,7 @@ numbers, executable programs, and the like. The basic contents of an
1199Emacs buffer (aside from the text properties, q.v.@:) are always text 1249Emacs buffer (aside from the text properties, q.v.@:) are always text
1200in this sense. 1250in this sense.
1201@item 1251@item
1202Data consisting of written human language, as opposed to programs, 1252Data consisting of written human language (as opposed to programs),
1203or following the stylistic conventions of human language. 1253or following the stylistic conventions of human language.
1204@end itemize 1254@end itemize
1205 1255
@@ -1221,7 +1271,7 @@ You can think of this as a graphical relative of the menu bar (q.v.@:).
1221@xref{Tool Bars}. 1271@xref{Tool Bars}.
1222 1272
1223@item Tooltips 1273@item Tooltips
1224Tooltips are small windows displaying a help echo (q.v.@:) text that 1274Tooltips are small windows displaying a help echo (q.v.@:) text, which
1225explains parts of the display, lists useful options available via mouse 1275explains parts of the display, lists useful options available via mouse
1226clicks, etc. @xref{Tooltips}. 1276clicks, etc. @xref{Tooltips}.
1227 1277
@@ -1252,6 +1302,12 @@ Undoing means making your previous editing go in reverse, bringing
1252back the text that existed earlier in the editing session. 1302back the text that existed earlier in the editing session.
1253@xref{Undo}. 1303@xref{Undo}.
1254 1304
1305@item Unix
1306Unix is a class of multi-user computer operating systems with a long
1307history. There are several implementations today. The GNU project
1308(q.v.@:) aims to develop a complete Unix-like operating system that
1309is free software (q.v.@:).
1310
1255@item User Option 1311@item User Option
1256A user option is a face (q.v.@:) or a variable (q.v.@:) that exists so 1312A user option is a face (q.v.@:) or a variable (q.v.@:) that exists so
1257that you can customize Emacs by setting it to a new value. 1313that you can customize Emacs by setting it to a new value.
@@ -1260,7 +1316,7 @@ that you can customize Emacs by setting it to a new value.
1260@item Variable 1316@item Variable
1261A variable is an object in Lisp that can store an arbitrary value. 1317A variable is an object in Lisp that can store an arbitrary value.
1262Emacs uses some variables for internal purposes, and has others (known 1318Emacs uses some variables for internal purposes, and has others (known
1263as `user options' (q.v.@:)) just so that you can set their values to 1319as `user options'; q.v.@:) just so that you can set their values to
1264control the behavior of Emacs. The variables used in Emacs that you 1320control the behavior of Emacs. The variables used in Emacs that you
1265are likely to be interested in are listed in the Variables Index in 1321are likely to be interested in are listed in the Variables Index in
1266this manual (@pxref{Variable Index}). @xref{Variables}, for 1322this manual (@pxref{Variable Index}). @xref{Variables}, for
@@ -1311,9 +1367,9 @@ provides WYSIWYG editing for files of characters; in Enriched mode
1311include text formatting information. 1367include text formatting information.
1312 1368
1313@item Yanking 1369@item Yanking
1314Yanking means reinserting text previously killed. It can be used to 1370Yanking means reinserting text previously killed (q.v.@:). It can be
1315undo a mistaken kill, or for copying or moving text. Some other 1371used to undo a mistaken kill, or for copying or moving text. Some
1316systems call this ``pasting.'' @xref{Yanking}. 1372other systems call this ``pasting.'' @xref{Yanking}.
1317@end table 1373@end table
1318 1374
1319@ignore 1375@ignore