'proofreader' originates from English, combining 'proof' (meaning a test copy of printed material) and 'read' (to look at and comprehend the meaning of written or printed matter).

'proofreader' was formed in English by combining 'proof' and 'reader' to describe someone who reads proofs to check for errors.

Initially, it referred specifically to someone who reads proofs in printing, but now it can refer to anyone who checks written material for errors.