paperback

noun

Definition of paperbacknext
as in hardcover
a published work that has a thick paper cover The store sells both paperbacks and hardcovers.

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of paperback Along the narrow hallway, bookshelves burst with first editions of John Updike, battered Stephen Kings, graphic novels, dime-store paperbacks, board games, books about mythology, children’s fairy tales, and Warhammer rule sets. — Nicholas Quah, Vulture, 29 July 2026 The exterior slip pockets are super convenient for storing things like paperback books or weekly planners, and plenty of shoppers provided pictures proving that the side pockets easily fit a water bottle or tumbler. — Natalie Labarbera, InStyle, 29 July 2026 Best of all, this elegant novel is new in paperback—easy to stow in your carry-on. — Amanda Eyre Ward, Travel + Leisure, 20 July 2026 The paperback edition of his translation of Homer’s Odyssey was released in April by the University of Chicago Press. — Daniel Mendelsohn, The New York Review of Books, 15 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for paperback
Recent Examples of Synonyms for paperback
  1. hardcover
  2. book
Noun
  • As a testament to its popularity, Better Than the Movies has been appeared on the New York Times monthly YA paperback list for 44 consecutive months and its weekly YA hardcover list for 20 weeks.
    — Matt Grobar, Deadline, 31 July 2026
  • The hardcover book had blank pages allocated for different parts of the story, an intended title and concept.
    — Clare Mulroy, USA Today, 24 July 2026
Definition of hardcover
Noun
  • In the center of town, check out Inquiring Minds Bookstore for used and new books with a great kids’ section or Enoki for an eclectic mix of Asian pantry items and vintage clothing.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 Aug. 2026
  • Across the country, churches and city halls opened specially on Saturday so people could light candles, write down their thoughts about the deceased king in condolence books.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 29 Aug. 2026
Definition of book

Browse Nearby Words

paper
paperback
paperbacks
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Cite this Entry

“Paperback.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/paperback. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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