Matchbook: meaning, definitions and examples
🔥
matchbook
[ ˈmæʧbʊk ]
safety device
A matchbook is a small cardboard folder that contains matches. It usually includes a striking surface on the outside that allows the matches to be lit. Matchbooks became especially popular in the early to mid-20th century as a promotional item, often featuring advertisements for businesses or products. They are designed for portability and convenience, making it easy to carry a small supply of matches for lighting cigarettes, candles, or fireplaces.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- I always carry a matchbook in my pocket.
- The restaurant gave us a matchbook with their logo on it.
- She opened the matchbook to light her candle.
- After a long day, he lit his cigar with a match from the matchbook.
Translations
Translations of the word "matchbook" in other languages:
🇵🇹 caixa de fósforos
🇮🇳 माचिस का डिब्बा
🇩🇪 Streichholzschachtel
🇮🇩 kotak korek api
🇺🇦 сірникова коробка
🇵🇱 zapałki
🇯🇵 マッチ箱
🇫🇷 boîte d'allumettes
🇪🇸 caja de cerillas
🇹🇷 kibrit kutusu
🇰🇷 성냥갑
🇸🇦 علبة كبريت
🇨🇿 krabička zápalek
🇸🇰 krabička zápaliek
🇨🇳 火柴盒
🇸🇮 škatlica za vžigalice
🇮🇸 kveikjaskáti
🇰🇿 сіріңке қорабы
🇬🇪 საშხაპური ყუთი
🇦🇿 qab qutusu
🇲🇽 caja de cerillos
Etymology
The word 'matchbook' combines the word 'match,' which refers to the small stick used to produce flame, with 'book,' indicating its folded, booklet-like design. The emergence of matchbooks dates back to the late 19th century, around the 1880s. They were initially designed for convenience in carrying matches. The concept of matchbooks quickly gained popularity due to their dual function as a practical tool and a medium for advertising. Businesses started printing their logos and contact information on matchbooks, which eventually became a widely used promotional item. By the mid-20th century, matchbook collecting became a popular hobby, with many enthusiasts seeking out unique designs and advertisements. In recent years, with the decline in smoking and the rise of disposable lighters, matchbooks are not as commonly used, but they remain a nostalgic item and a symbol of a bygone era.