bookbinding

1 of 2

noun (1)

book·​bind·​ing ˈbu̇k-ˌbīn-diŋ How to pronounce bookbinding (audio)
1
: the art or trade of binding books
2
: the binding of a book
bookbinder
ˈbu̇k-ˌbīn-dər How to pronounce bookbinding (audio)
noun
bookbindery
ˈbu̇k-ˌbīn-d(ə-)rē How to pronounce bookbinding (audio)
noun

bookbindery

2 of 2

noun (2)

book·​bind·​ery ˈbu̇k-ˌbīn-d(ə-)rē How to pronounce bookbindery (audio)
plural -es
: a place where bookbinding is done

Examples of bookbinding in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Noun
The bookbinding of the tome consists of a wooden board clad in leather with metal guards and fittings. — Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 25 Dec. 2025 The abstract look is replicated using the ancient technique used in bookbinding, but can pass as a retro home decor piece in your living room. — Yelena Moroz Alpert, Architectural Digest, 12 May 2026 An ancient art form still practiced by hand, bookbinding is finding new life at the Harcourt Bindery, a small shop in Charlestown. — Rachel Holt, CBS News, 19 Apr. 2026 Each planner is hand-bound in England using traditional bookbinding methods to ensure quality and longevity. — Kristina Rutkowski, Vogue, 6 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for bookbinding

Word History

First Known Use

Noun (1)

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Noun (2)

1809, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of bookbinding was in the 15th century

Rhymes for bookbinding

See All Rhymes for bookbinding

Browse Nearby Words

bookbindery
bookbinding
book boat
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Cite this Entry

“Bookbinding.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bookbinding. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

bookbinding

noun
book·​bind·​ing -ˌbīn-diŋ How to pronounce bookbinding (audio)
1
: the binding of a book
2
: the art or trade of binding books

More from Merriam-Webster on bookbinding

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about bookbinding

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