papery

1 of 2

adjective

pa·​pery ˈpā-p(ə-)rē 

: resembling paper in thinness or consistency

papery leaves

papery silk

paperiness noun

paperiness

2 of 2

noun

pa·​per·​i·​ness

ˈpāp(ə)rēnə̇s, 

-rin-

plural -es

: the condition of being papery

the whole plant is of a dry paperiness, like the everlastings

—M. B. Eldershaw

Examples of papery in a Sentence

Adjective

a berry with papery skin

the papery wing of a moth

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

The wasps build their nests by breaking down plant and wood fibers to form a papery substance. — Patricia S York, Southern Living, 21 June 2026

Hornet nests are made from a papery substance, are usually a closed structure that’s cylindrical in form, and may be built in the eaves of your home, under a roof, in a tree, or in another sheltered spot. — Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 June 2026

In many cases, these brown lines have a dry, papery texture that's left behind as the plant grows and unfurls new leaves. — Heather Bien, The Spruce, 7 June 2026

Green hydrangea varieties have a waxy feel, while the other types are papery to the touch. — Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 25 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Noun

papery + -ness

First Known Use

Adjective

1602, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for papery

• drapery

Kids Definition

papery

adjective

pa·​pery ˈpā-p(ə-)rē 

: resembling paper in thinness or firmness

papery leaves

paperiness noun