\Ste"re*o*type\, n. [Stereo- + -type: cf. F.
st['e]r['e]otype.]
1. A plate forming an exact faximile of a page of type or of
   an engraving, used in printing books, etc.; specifically,
   a plate with type-metal face, used for printing.
Note: A stereotype, or stereotypr plate, is made by setting
      movable type as for ordinary printing; from these a
      cast is taken in plaster of Paris, paper pulp, or the
      like, and upon this cast melted type metal is poured,
      which, when hardened, makes a solid page or column,
      from which the impression is taken as from type.
2. The art or process of making such plates, or of executing
   work by means of them.
{Stereotype block}, a block, usually of wood, to which a
   stereotype plate is attached while being used in printing.

\Ste"re*o*type\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Stereotyped};
p. pr. & vb. n. {Stereotyping}.] [Cf. F. st['e]r['e]otyper.]
1. To prepare for printing in stereotype; to make the
   stereotype plates of; as, to stereotype the Bible.
2. Fig.: To make firm or permanent; to fix.
         Powerful causes tending to stereotype and aggravate
         the poverty of old conditions.        --Duke of
                                               Argyll (1887).