paperback

noun

pa·​per·​back ˈpā-pər-ˌbak How to pronounce paperback (audio)
Synonyms of paperbacknext
: a book with a flexible paper binding
paperback adjective
or less commonly paperbacked

Examples of paperback in a Sentence

The store sells both paperbacks and hardcovers. The book is sold only in paperback.
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.
Common items include notebooks or journals, paperback books or magazines, film cameras and crosswords. Avery Newmark, AJC.com, 29 Jan. 2026 Enterprising group member Freddy (Delaney Quinn) spots the paperback Josh was reading in the trash bin, spattered in blood. David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 24 Jan. 2026 The books, neatly shelved in alphabetical order, are available for 50 cents for paperbacks and $1 for hard cover titles. Kansas City Star, 23 Jan. 2026 Both books were instant New York Times bestsellers; the latter is set to make its paperback debut on June 30, 2026. Matt Grobar, Deadline, 7 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for paperback

Word History

First Known Use

1843, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of paperback was in 1843

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Cite this Entry

“Paperback.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/paperback. Accessed 5 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

paperback

noun
pa·​per·​back ˈpä-pər-ˌbak How to pronounce paperback (audio)
: a book with a flexible paper binding
paperback adjective

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