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bookish

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˈbʊkɪʃ/

KK: /ˈbʊkɪʃ/

adjective
Definition

Someone who loves reading and studying, often spending a lot of time with books.


Example

She has a bookish personality, always carrying a novel wherever she goes.


Conversation
Sloth A
I always thought you were a bit too bookish for your own good.
Sloth B
Maybe, but I enjoy learning new things through reading.
Sloth A
True, but sometimes it feels like you miss out on real-life experiences.
Sloth B
I get that, but I think being bookish has its own rewards.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
studious
literary
pedantic
Antonyms
practical
unlearned
ignorant
Root Explanation

Bookish → It is formed from "book" (from Old English *bōc*, meaning a written work or text) and "-ish" (meaning having the quality of). The word "bookish" describes someone who has the qualities or characteristics of a book, often implying a love for reading or scholarly pursuits.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who has the qualities of a 'book' — that's why 'bookish' means someone who loves reading or is scholarly.

Visually Confused Words
unbookish
rookish
hookish
cookish
boorish
nonbookish
spookish
boobyish
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