bookshelf

noun

book·​shelf ˈbu̇k-ˌshelf How to pronounce bookshelf (audio)
: an open shelf for holding books

Examples of bookshelf in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web In my household, nobody studied a foreign language or alphabetized their bookshelves. Alan Sepinwall, Rolling Stone, 15 Apr. 2024 Libraries are a go-to, but there are also options for those who want to own a physical copy to build up their bookshelf. Clare Mulroy, USA TODAY, 13 Apr. 2024 Ceiling-high bookshelves are stacked with Spanish cookbooks, glassware and other home goods. Heidi Finley, Charlotte Observer, 11 Apr. 2024 Something genuine, at least through the bookshelf speakers at my home. Travis M. Andrews, Washington Post, 28 Mar. 2024 And instead of getting a ladder or rectangular bookcase, go for an arched option that screams bookshelf wealth. Sharon Greenthal, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 Mar. 2024 The large, 24-inch wreath will look beautiful on a front door, above a mantel, or as a decorative accessory on a bookshelf. Alida Nugent, Peoplemag, 2 Apr. 2024 The company’s website shows the gun stored on a bookshelf behind a family watching TV and above a kitchen counter with kids nearby. Suzy Khimm, NBC News, 22 Mar. 2024 The versatile piece looks great on a mantle, a bookshelf, or as a dining table centerpiece. Isabel Garcia, Peoplemag, 21 Mar. 2024

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

Word History

First Known Use

1648, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of bookshelf was in 1648

Dictionary Entries Near bookshelf

Cite this Entry

“Bookshelf.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bookshelf. Accessed 25 Apr. 2024.

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