periodico

Periodico is a term used in several Romance languages to denote a periodical publication issued at regular intervals, most commonly a newspaper or a news-focused outlet. In Italian and Portuguese, periodico can refer to any printed periodical, including newspapers and journals. In Spanish, the standard form is periódico and it primarily refers to a newspaper, though the broader sense of a periodic publication is understood in context.

Historically, modern periodicals emerged in early modern Europe as printed news sheets and gazettes, evolving into daily and weekly newspapers by the 17th and 18th centuries. The word periodical derives from Latin periodicus and Greek periodos, reflecting the recurring, time-based nature of these publications.

Today, periodicos may be produced in print and digital formats. A typical periodico contains news reporting, editorials, opinion, features on culture and science, and advertising. Newspapers, often published daily or weekly, emphasize timely reporting and current events, while journals or magazines (which may also be called periodicals in some contexts) focus more on in-depth articles, analysis, or niche topics. Editorial independence, journalistic ethics, and reliability are central concerns for reputable periodicos.

Cultural and regional variations affect naming conventions, distribution models, and access. In the digital age, many periodicos maintain online editions, archives, and multimedia content, broadening reach beyond geographic boundaries.