bibliophile

noun

bib·​lio·​phile ˈbi-blē-ə-ˌfī(-ə)l How to pronounce bibliophile (audio)
: a lover of books especially for qualities of format
also : a book collector
bibliophilic adjective
bibliophilism noun
bibliophily noun

Examples of bibliophile in a Sentence

for bibliophiles, no electronic device could possibly give the tactile pleasure of a beautifully bound book
Recent Examples on the Web This weekend is like Christmas for bibliophiles, thanks to the Library of Congress’s National Book Festival, which brings dozens of authors to the Walter E. Washington Convention Center for readings, panel discussions and book signings. Olivia McCormack, Washington Post, 10 Aug. 2023 Bookforum featured emerging authors and literary legends, modern takes on classic works, and craft-centric content for both writers and bibliophiles since its launch in 1994. Emily St. Martin, Los Angeles Times, 24 June 2023 The Morgan Library & Museum is home to J.P. Morgan's beautiful private library-turned-museum, a must-visit space for bibliophiles (in addition to the obvious must-visit New York Public Library). Alison Fox, Travel + Leisure, 9 June 2023 The trend garners varied reactions among bibliophiles, design-lovers, and those who refuse to choose a side. House Beautiful, 31 May 2023 Western Massachusetts bibliophiles can now buy their books union. Diti Kohli, BostonGlobe.com, 26 May 2023 Luckily for local bibliophiles, Hobart Book Village, the only book town east of the Mississippi River, is not too far away, in the northern Catskills. Betsy Groban, BostonGlobe.com, 13 Apr. 2023 Like bibliophiles who visit Portland mainly to wander through Powell’s Books, some of Ashland’s tourists are here to check out independent businesses legendary in their retail world for catering to specific passions. oregonlive, 22 Apr. 2023 So, what can young bibliophiles expect from the latest title? Adrianna Freedman, Good Housekeeping, 18 Apr. 2023 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'bibliophile.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

French, from bibli- + -phile

First Known Use

1820, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of bibliophile was in 1820

Dictionary Entries Near bibliophile

Cite this Entry

“Bibliophile.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bibliophile. Accessed 8 Dec. 2023.

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