loose-leaf

adjective

ˈlüs-ˈlēf 

1

: having leaves secured in book form in a cover whose spine may be opened for adding, arranging, or removing leaves

loose-leaf notebook

2

: of, relating to, or used with a loose-leaf binding

loose-leaf paper

Examples of loose-leaf in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Ideal for delicate loose-leaf brewing (such as gyokuro), each teapot has a small 100-to-200-milliliter capacity that prevents over-steeping and allows for rich infusions, each brew better than the last. —Abbey Stone, Bon Appetit Magazine, 9 Apr. 2026

But in states that haven’t banned kratom, it’s sold at gas stations, smoke shops and convenience, grocery and health food stores in various forms, including powders, loose-leaf teas, capsules, tablets and concentrates. —Kristen Rogers, CNN Money, 27 Mar. 2026

Traditional coffee, loose-leaf tea and refreshers are also on the menu alongside a few pastries. —Tanasia Kenney, Charlotte Observer, 13 Mar. 2026

The friendly attendants prepare 11 loose-leaf teas—a mix of house blends and Prince & Sons selections—and serve finger sandwiches like cucumber and Waterlip, a tangy feta-style cheese made on site at the Creamery. —Adam Erace, Time, 12 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1902, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for loose-leaf

• cloverleaf
• disbelief
• leitmotif
• overleaf
• unbelief
• beef
• brief
• chief
• fief
• grief
• leaf
• lief

Kids Definition

loose-leaf

adjective

ˈlü-ˈslēf

1

: designed so that sheets (as of paper) can be removed or inserted by opening a locking device

loose-leaf notebook

2

: of, relating to, or used with a loose-leaf binding

loose-leaf paper