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Definition of paperback

paperback

/ˈpeɪpərbæk/
pa · per · back
Plural:paperbacks
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paperback Lexical Profile

paperback Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Bound in stiff paper or flexible cardboard rather than a hard cover.

Example

"She prefers paperback editions because they are lighter and easier to carry while commuting."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• noun

1

A book bound in stiff paper or flexible cardboard.

Example

"The new thriller will be released as a paperback next spring."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

papeete
paper
paper birch
paperback
paperboard
paperbound
paperboy

Word Origin & Etymology

Originated in the mid-19th century as a compound of 'paper' and 'back', describing books bound with thick paper or card covers rather than expensive stiff boards or cloth.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Paperback. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/paperback
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