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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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The person sat between bookshelves, and the background showed drapes over what looked like a dark window. Faith Karimi, CNN Money, 29 Nov. 2025 The engine of the world's largest encyclopedia runs on the work of volunteers, and at its helm is Jimmy Wales, the Wikipedia founder who joins me now to share insights from his new book, The Seven Rules of Trust on bookshelves now. Dana Taylor, USA Today, 28 Nov. 2025 The central lounge is arranged like a living room, with a bookshelf that runs along the wall, framing a large, freestanding sofa. Samantha Conti, Footwear News, 27 Nov. 2025 The empty bookshelves lining the walls spoke volumes. Roxana Popescu, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for bookshelf

Word History

First Known Use

1648, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of bookshelf was in 1648

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Cite this Entry

“Bookshelf.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bookshelf. Accessed 1 Dec. 2025.

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