Caption controversy

The title of the letter "A missing alum" (The Jakarta Post, May 28, 1994) caught my attention and prompted this response.

As far as I know, the word 'alum' refers to a chemical compound and not a former student. Alumnus (pl: alumni) is the correct word that should have been used in the heading. The Oxford dictionary to which I referred substantiates it too. I believe it was a typing error or just an oversight.

A. KRISHNAN

Surabaya, East Java

Note: Thanks for your comment. But "alum" is a widely accepted word used to refer to an "alumnus." (Please consult also the unabridged Webster's Dictionary).

-- Editor