stationery

noun

sta·​tio·​nery ˈstā-shə-ˌner-ē 

1

: materials (such as paper, pens, and ink) for writing or typing

2

: letter paper usually accompanied with matching envelopes

Did you know?

stationary or stationery?

The Internet is awash with mnemonics (“something (such as a word, a sentence, or a song) that helps people remember something“) designed to assist those who have trouble distinguishing between two similar words. A fair share of these turn out to be for the words stationery and stationary. The most commonly suggested method is to remember that you buy papER at a stationERy store. If this trick does not work for you, then perhaps it will help to remember that a stationery store is one that is run by a stationer. This word was originally applied to a bookseller, but by the middle of the 17th century it began to be used for a person who sells papers, pens, and office goods.

Examples of stationery in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The store houses Smythson’s full selection, and also features a dedicated bespoke stationery salon, the only one outside of London, where customers can book a one-on-one appointment with a stationery specialist. — Samantha Conti, Footwear News, 14 Oct. 2026

The store’s inventory is filled with more than 100 stationery brands and paper products, according to Arden Fair. — Emma Hall october 7, Sacbee.com, 7 Oct. 2026

The Met Store sells jewelry, home gifts, books, stationery, and other knick-knacks inspired by the art, architecture, and gardens of medieval Europe. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 8 Sep. 2026

The signatures of Elvis and Vernon Presley appear on the $4,500 signing bonus receipt, which is typed on the official Peabody Hotel stationery. — Southern Living Editors, Southern Living, 4 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

stationer

First Known Use

1727, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for stationery

• accessary
• adversary
• ancillary
• apiary
• arbitrary
• aviary
• axillary
• bacillary
• beriberi
• bestiary
• breviary
• budgetary

Kids Definition

stationery

noun

sta·​tio·​nery ˈstā-shə-ˌner-ē 

1

: materials (as paper, pens, and ink) for writing or typing

2

: letter paper usually accompanied with matching envelopes