Books Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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books
[bÊŠks ]
Definitions
reading material
Books are written or printed works consisting of pages glued or sewn together along one side and bound in covers. They are used for various purposes such as entertainment, education, information, and relaxation.
Synonyms
literature, novels, publications.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| books |
General term for bound volumes of printed or written material.
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| literature |
Refers to written works considered to have artistic or intellectual value.
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| novels |
A specific type of book that tells a fictional story, usually of significant length.
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| publications |
Refers to any works that have been published, including books, journals, and magazines.
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Examples of usage
- Reading books is a great way to unwind after a long day.
- I always carry a book with me when I travel.
collection of records
Books can also refer to a collection of records or documents kept in a specific order for reference or research purposes.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| books |
General term for printed or digital volumes containing text, used for reading and studying.
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| records |
Information or data stored in various forms, often as evidence of events or transactions. Frequently used in legal, medical, or organizational contexts.
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| documents |
Written or printed papers that provide information or evidence, frequently used in administrative, legal, or professional settings.
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| archives |
Collections of historical documents and records, often stored for their long-term value. Used in academic, historical, or governmental contexts.
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Examples of usage
- The library has a vast collection of books on various subjects.
- She spent hours going through the books in the archives.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The earliest known 'books' were made from papyrus in ancient Egypt around 2500 BC.
- The word 'book' comes from the Old English 'boc', which is related to the word for 'beech', as early writing was done on beech wood.
- Printing changed the world with the invention of the Gutenberg press in the 15th century, making books accessible to many more people.
Literature
- Books have been categorized into genres like fiction, non-fiction, fantasy, and mystery, allowing readers to explore different types of stories.
- The novel 'Don Quixote', published in the 17th century, is often considered one of the first modern novels and greatly influenced later literature.
- Classic literature often includes timeless works, such as Shakespeare's plays and the fairy tales of the Brothers Grimm, which continue to delight readers of all ages.
Psychology
- Reading can boost empathy, as it allows readers to experience different perspectives and emotions through characters in stories.
- Engaging with books has been shown to reduce stress significantly, sometimes lowering levels of cortisol more than listening to music or taking a walk.
- Regular reading can improve cognitive function and vocabulary, making it a fundamental activity for personal and intellectual growth.
Technology
- E-books and audiobooks have transformed how we access literature, allowing readers to carry entire libraries on their devices.
- The rise of online platforms has enabled self-publishing, giving more writers the chance to share their work without traditional publishing hurdles.
- With the advent of print-on-demand technology, books can now be printed one at a time, reducing waste and allowing for niche topics to be published.
Pop Culture
- Popular book series like 'Harry Potter' have not only spawned a whole genre of fantasy but also successful movie franchises and merchandise.
- 'Banned books week' celebrates the power of literature by highlighting books that have faced censorship, reminding people of the importance of freedom of expression.
- Book clubs have become a cultural phenomenon, bringing people together to discuss literature and share their perspectives on story themes and characters.
Origin of 'books'
The history of books dates back to ancient times when writing systems were developed. The earliest forms of books were clay tablets, papyrus scrolls, and parchment manuscripts. The invention of the printing press in the 15th century revolutionized the production and distribution of books, making them more accessible to a wider audience. Today, books continue to play a crucial role in preserving knowledge, sharing stories, and shaping cultures around the world.
See also: book, bookcase, booked, bookie, booking, bookish, bookkeeper, bookkeeping, booklet, bookmaker, bookrack, bookrest, bookshelf, bookshop, bookstand, bookstore, bookworm, ultrabook.