Comic terms explained

Issue
A single comic book. Think of it like one episode of a show.

Series / Run
A sequence of issues telling a longer story (e.g., a 6-issue run).

Volume (Vol.)
A collection of issues, often grouped by story arc or creative team.

Story Arc
A complete storyline that may span multiple issues.

One-Shot
A standalone comic with a complete story in one issue.

Trade Paperback (TPB)
A softcover book collecting several issues of a series.

Hardcover (HC)
A premium, hardbound collection of issues.

Omnibus
A large collection that usually includes many issues or even entire runs.

Cover A / Variant Cover
Cover A is the main cover. Variants are alternate covers, often with different art.

Ratio Variant
A rarer cover only available if a store orders a certain number of copies (e.g., 1:25 means 1 variant per 25 regular issues ordered).

Interior Art
The artwork inside the comic, not including the cover.

Panels
Individual boxes on a page that show moments of the story.

Splash Page
A full-page illustration, often used for dramatic impact.

Double-Page Spread
Artwork that spans two full pages.

Creative Team
The people who make the comic—writer, artist, inker, colorist, letterer.

Canon
Official story that “counts” in the main universe.

Continuity
How stories connect and stay consistent over time.

First Appearance
The first time a character shows up in a comic—often important to collectors.

Key Issue
An issue with significance (first appearances, major events, deaths, etc.).

Slabbed / Graded
A comic professionally graded and sealed in a protective case.

Reader Copy
A comic meant to be read, not necessarily kept in perfect condition.