paperback

noun

pa·​per·​back ˈpā-pər-ˌbak 

: a book with a flexible paper binding

paperback adjective

or less commonly paperbacked

ˈpā-pər-ˌbakt 

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

Ahead of the release of both the paperback book and movie, take a look at the film actors side-by-side with the people who served as real-life inspiration for the tale. —Rachel Raposas, People.com, 5 Aug. 2025

This breezy, down-in-one-gulp of a novel—now out in paperback—follows a charismatic family on one of their annual Cape Cod vacations. —Brittany Allen, Literary Hub, 31 July 2025

Each store had a list of items ranging from candy, soap, razors and paperback books that could be purchased as gifts to servicemen in Vietnam. —Indianapolis Star, IndyStar, 2 July 2025

Diddy had an AirPod headphone in his right ear for several moments on at least two occasions and had carried two paperback books into court this morning. —Victoria Bekiempis, Vulture, 30 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1843, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for paperback

• almanac
• camelback
• cardiac
• carryback
• cluniac
• diamondback
• lumberjack
• maniac
• piggyback
• quarterback
• saddleback
• stickleback

Kids Definition

paperback

noun

pa·​per·​back ˈpä-pər-ˌbak 

: a book with a flexible paper binding

paperback adjective