Bookstand Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

📚

Add to dictionary

bookstand

[ˈbʊkstænd ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

furniture piece

A bookstand is a piece of furniture designed to hold books for reading or display. It typically consists of a flat surface with a ledge to prevent books from falling off. Bookstands come in various designs and materials, such as wood, metal, or plastic.

Synonyms

book holder, book rack, bookrest.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
bookstand	Same as the first 'bookstand' entry; meant for displaying books in stores or libraries. The bookstore set up a bookstand to showcase the new arrivals. You can find the latest magazines on the bookstand near the entrance.
bookrest	Typically refers to a small, portable device used to support a book while reading, often designed to be adjustable. She used a bookrest to comfortably read her novel in bed. The portable bookrest made it easier for him to read on the go.
book holder	Commonly used by readers at home or students to hold a book open for hands-free reading, often on a desk or table. She used a book holder to keep her textbook open while she took notes. A book holder is perfect for reading recipes while cooking.
book rack	Used to store or organize multiple books, often in a home library, office, or classroom. The teacher arranged the children's books neatly on the book rack. They bought a new book rack to keep their growing collection organized.

Examples of usage

The antique bookstand in the library displayed rare first editions.
She placed her cookbook on the kitchen bookstand for easy access.
The adjustable bookstand allowed for comfortable reading in bed.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Development

Bookstands have been around since medieval times, often used in monasteries to hold sacred texts for easy reading during prayer.
In the Renaissance, bookstands became popular in homes, allowing readers to access multiple books at once, a sign of learning and wealth.
Modern bookstands vary in design, from decorative wooden furniture to practical metal or plastic ones, catering to different tastes and reading needs.

Cultural Significance

In many cultures, bookstands symbolize education and knowledge, often seen in libraries and study areas.
The way books are displayed on a stand can reflect cultural values, such as prioritizing accessibility or aesthetics in a reading environment.

Literature

Bookstands are often featured in stories and films as places where characters find inspiration or embark on adventures sparked by the books they read.
In some literary traditions, the act of displaying books on a stand signifies sharing knowledge and the importance of literature in society.

Design and Functionality

Modern bookstands are designed ergonomically to reduce strain during reading, highlighting the intersection of design and health.
Some bookstands even come with built-in lights and adjustable angles, demonstrating innovation in how we interact with written works.

Origin of 'bookstand'

Main points about word origin

The word 'book' originates from the Old English 'bōc', which is related to the word for 'tree' in Germanic languages, as early writing was done on tree bark.
The word 'stand' comes from the Old English 'standan', meaning to be in an upright position, which reflects the function of a bookstand.

The concept of the bookstand dates back to ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and Greeks, who used lecterns to hold scrolls for reading. Over time, bookstands evolved to accommodate bound books, becoming a common piece of furniture in libraries, homes, and offices.