Newspapers are called 'press' because they are produced using a printing press, which is a mechanical device used to transfer ink to paper. The term "press" has been used to refer to printed matter since the 16th century, when the printing press was first invented. Before this, books and other written works were produced by hand, using a quill pen or similar writing instrument. The printing press revolutionized the process of producing printed materials, making it much faster and easier to produce large quantities of books, newspapers, and other printed matter. As a result, the term "press" became synonymous with the printing industry, and newspapers came to be known as "press" because they were produced using this technology.
In addition to its literal meaning, the term "press" can also be used figuratively to refer to the media in general, particularly the news media. In this sense, the press is often seen as a powerful force that can shape public opinion and influence political discourse. The term "press freedom" is also used to refer to the freedom of the media to operate without censorship or interference from the government.