paperback Definition
- 1a book with a cover made of thick paper
- 2a book that is not a hardcover or a leather-bound book
Using paperback: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "paperback" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
I prefer to buy paperbacks because they are cheaper than hardcovers.
Example
The bookstore has a large selection of paperbacks.
Example
The author's latest novel is now available in paperback.
paperback Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for paperback
- softcover
- trade paperback
- pocket book
Antonyms for paperback
- hardcover
- leather-bound book
Phrases with paperback
mass-market paperback
a type of paperback book that is printed in large quantities and sold at a low price
Example
The mass-market paperback edition of the novel sold millions of copies.
a type of paperback book that is larger and of higher quality than a mass-market paperback, often used for books that are not expected to sell in large quantities
Example
The trade paperback edition of the book includes additional illustrations and annotations.
Example
I always keep a pocket book in my bag for when I have some free time to read.
Summary: paperback in Brief
A 'paperback' [ˈpeɪpərbæk] is a book with a cover made of thick paper, and is not a hardcover or leather-bound book. It is often preferred due to its lower cost. Variations include 'mass-market paperback,' which is printed in large quantities and sold at a low price, 'trade paperback,' which is larger and of higher quality, and 'pocket book,' which is small and portable.