What does 'bleed' mean in the context of print design?

In the context of print design, 'bleed' refers to an image that extends to the edge of the page or beyond it. This technique is crucial because it ensures that when the printed piece is trimmed to its final size, there are no unprinted edges or white borders left behind. By allowing the image to bleed off the edge, designers can maintain a seamless and professional look to their printed materials. This is particularly important in various printed products such as brochures, flyers, and business cards, where a visually appealing design is paramount.

In contrast, an image that does not fill the page would not utilize the bleed feature effectively, leaving gaps that can disrupt the visual continuity of the design. Other choices related to color correction or typography effects are not relevant to the definition of bleed, which specifically pertains to the layout and printing process.