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The individual who adds color to the comic book pages, playing a significant role in the art's mood and style. Example: A colorist might use dark shades to convey a gloomy atmosphere in a Batman comic.

A brief appearance or reference of a character in a comic book, often before a full introduction. Example: Wolverine's cameo in 'The Incredible Hulk' #180 before his first full appearance in issue #181.

The official storyline and events within the universe of a particular comic book. Example: The events of 'The Death of Superman' are considered canon within the DC Universe.

A collection of previously published comic books reprinted in a more durable format. Example: 'The Walking Dead' volumes that collect the individual issues of the comic series.

The period from the late 1930s to early 1950s considered the first boom of comic books, featuring the debut of many iconic superheroes. Example: The introduction of Superman in 'Action Comics' #1 in 1938.

The space between panels in a comic book. It can affect timing and the way a story is read. Example: The varying width of gutters can create a sense of rapid action or a slow pace.

The artist who goes over the pencil lines with ink to define and finalize the pages. Example: An inker might add depth to Spider-Man's webbing to make it stand out.

Narrative revealing how a character gained their abilities or began their superhero career. Example: Batman's origin story involves the death of Bruce Wayne's parents leading him to become the Dark Knight.

A storyline that extends to multiple comic book series and unites various characters. Example: 'The Infinity Gauntlet' event involving characters from the entire Marvel Universe.

Short for 'retroactive continuity,' it refers to changes that revise or ignore previous events in a comic's history. Example: Changing Spider-Man's origin story to include a lost sibling.

The period from the mid 1950s to early 1970s marked by the resurgence of superhero comics and more complex characters. Example: The creation of Spider-Man in 'Amazing Fantasy' #15 in 1962.

The period from the early 1970s to mid 1980s noted for darker storylines and the introduction of socially relevant issues. Example: 'Green Lantern/Green Arrow' dealt with topics like drug addiction.

A single illustration frame on a comic book page that contains a segment of action. Example: A panel showing Spider-Man swinging across a cityscape.

A Japanese comic book or graphic novel with a distinctive style and following its own set of conventions. Example: 'Naruto', a popular manga series about a young ninja.

A longer narrative work in comic book format, often with more complex storylines. Example: 'Maus' by Art Spiegelman, which depicts the Holocaust using anthropomorphic characters.

The person responsible for drawing the comic book’s text, including dialogue and sound effects. Example: A letterer will decide how 'BAM!' or 'WHACK!' appears visually in a fight scene.

An alternative version of a comic book cover, often created by a different artist or for a special occasion. Example: A holographic variant cover for a milestone issue of 'X-Men'.

The period from the mid 1980s to the present, featuring more sophisticated storytelling and a proliferation of independent publishers. Example: The publication of 'Watchmen' by Alan Moore in 1986.

A full-page drawing in a comic book that typically introduces a scene or character with impact. Example: Batman standing atop a Gotham building, overlooking the city.