Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
over-the-transom
idiom
/ˌoʊvər ðə ˈtræn.səm/
Definition
A term used to describe unsolicited material, often manuscripts or proposals, that are sent to a publisher or editor without advance notice or a formal invitation.
Examples
- The author sent his novel over-the-transom, hoping it would catch the editor’s attention.
- Many screenplays are submitted over-the-transom, leading to a mix of quality and potential.
Meaning
The phrase originates from a physical transom, a horizontal structural component over a doorway, and indicates that material has been submitted without the recipient’s prior request.
Synonyms
- unsolicited
- uninvited
- spontaneous
