hardback
n.a book that has a hard cover made of thick cardboard or plastic. These books are usually more expensive and last longer than paperbacks.
n.a book bound in rigid protective covers, typically made of thick cardboard or plastic. Often associated with higher production quality and durability compared to paperback editions.
“I prefer buying a hardback book for my collection.”
“The library decided to replace the worn paperbacks with hardbacks to ensure the books lasted longer for students.”
“While digital formats have gained popularity, many collectors still seek out the tactile weight and aesthetic appeal of a first-edition hardback.”
“I had a collection of fairytales in a big yellow hardback, which I was totally entranced by from around the age of seven to 10.”
From hard + back, formed in analogy to earlier paperback.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.