periódico

A periódico is a term used in Spanish and Portuguese to refer to a periodical publication that reports news and current events at regular intervals. In Spanish, periódico commonly means newspaper, while in Portuguese the everyday term for a newspaper is jornal; elsewhere, periódico can also denote a broader class of periodicals published on a schedule. The word derives from Latin periodus, via French périodique, reflecting publication at fixed intervals.

A newspaper or periódico typically includes sections such as local, national and international news, politics, economy, sports, culture, and opinion. It may feature editorials, commentary columns, investigative reporting, and advertisements. Print editions are issued at defined frequencies—daily, weekly, or semiweekly—and many publications maintain digital editions that add multimedia content, archives, and interactive features.

History and evolution: The modern newspaper emerged with the spread of printing and rising literacy in early modern Europe. Regular news sheets appeared in the 17th century, giving rise to journals that organized reports, commentary, and public discourse. The 19th and 20th centuries saw developments such as photojournalism, standardized reporting practices, and mass distribution. Since the late 20th century, digital publishing has transformed production, distribution, and business models.

Role and challenges: Newspapers and periódicos serve as sources of information, accountability, and public discourse, operating within legal and ethical frameworks that protect editorial independence and press freedom in many countries. Business models often rely on advertising and subscriptions; the digital transition has introduced paywalls, streaming and social media strategies, while raising concerns about misinformation, revenue pressures, and data privacy.