Definition

Made from a type of thick paper that is often used for making boxes or cards, usually considered to be of lower quality.

Example

The artist used pasteboard to create a lightweight model of the building.

Conversation

Did you see that pasteboard box they used for the gift?

Yeah, it looked really cheap and flimsy.

I thought so too; I expected something more durable.

Definitely! It should have been made of better material.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A type of stiff paper made by gluing together layers of paper, often used for making cards or other items.

Example

She wrote her name on the pasteboard before handing it out as a visiting card.

Conversation

Have you seen my pasteboard for the game night?

I think I saw it on the table earlier.

I need it to keep track of the scores during the games.

Root Explanation

Pasteboard → It is formed from "paste" (from Old French *paster*, meaning to spread or smear) and "board" (from Old English *bord*, meaning a flat piece of material). The word "pasteboard" refers to a flat material that is made by pasting together layers of paper or other materials.

Memory Tip

Think of 'spreading' ('paste') something onto a 'flat piece' ('board') — that's how you remember that pasteboard is a flat material made by pasting.

Visually Confused Words