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 Published in 1986 by Simon & Schuster, McMurtry’s novel — the first in the Lonesome Dove book series — spent 24 consecutive weeks in hardcover and 28 consecutive weeks in paperback on NYT’s Bestseller list, selling over 4 million copies. — Nellie Andreeva, Deadline, 8 Sep. 2026 Adult hardcovers will be $1, paperbacks are two for $1, and youth books are four for $1. — Everett Eaton, jsonline.com, 4 Sep. 2026 Most drawing books for beginners come in hardback, paperback and e-tablet versions. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 1 Sep. 2026 In Conversation Books by Adam Johnson, Karl Ove Knausgaard, Sarah Moss, and more are arriving in paperback this September. — Literary Hub, 31 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for paperback
Recent Examples of Synonyms for paperback
  1. hardcover
  2. book
Noun
  • While the most popular e-readers are smaller than a hardcover, many are still a bit too large for true grab-and-go convenience.
    — Eliza Thompson, Time, 15 Oct. 2026
  • Floor-to-ceiling shelves are stacked with fine hardcover books, wooden xylophones, ticking clocks, and high-tech speakers.
    — CT Jones, Rolling Stone, 14 Oct. 2026
Definition of hardcover
Noun
  • Eventually, in 1914, Jo succeeded in publishing Vincent’s letters in an ambitious three-volume book, which today is considered one of the most revealing and important works of art history.
    — Joan Martelli, Time, 17 Oct. 2026
  • Students, working-class people, artists, local neighborhood families, musicians and people from all walks of life who simply love books and reading.
    — Marc Weingarten, Los Angeles Times, 17 Oct. 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 20 Oct. 2026.

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