hardcover
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈhɑːrdˌkʌvər/
KK: /ˈhɑrdˌkʌvər/
adjective
Definition
A type of book that has stiff covers made of cloth, cardboard, or leather, making it more durable than a paperback.
Example
I prefer to read hardcover books because they last longer and look nicer on my shelf.
Conversation
Have you seen the new book I got?
No, I haven't! Is it a hardcover?
Yeah, I love how it looks on my shelf.
Hardcovers always look so nice and durable.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
sturdy
rigid
durable
Antonyms
softcover
flexible
fragile
noun
Definition
A type of book that has a stiff, protective cover, usually made of cardboard or similar material, making it more durable than a paperback.
Example
I prefer to read hardcover books because they last longer and look nicer on my shelf.
Conversation
Have you seen my new hardcover book?
No, I haven't! What book did you get?
It's a classic novel, and the hardcover edition is beautiful.
Root Explanation
Hardcover → It is formed from "hard" (from Old English "heard", meaning firm or solid) and "cover" (from Old French "couvrer", meaning to cover). The word "hardcover" refers to a book that has a firm or solid cover.
Memory Tip
Think of a book with a 'firm' ('hard') 'cover' — that's what a hardcover book is.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.