ENGLISH
REFERENCE

textbook

n. · adj.
US //ˈtɛkstˌbʊk// UK //tˈɛkstbʊk// text·book
  1. 1 educational book (n.)
    A2 Elementary

    a book that contains information about a subject that people study in school or university.

    a formal manual of instruction in a specific subject, typically designed for use in educational institutions.

    Example

    I need to buy a new biology textbook for my science class next week.

    Example

    The university updated the introductory economics textbook to include a more comprehensive analysis of digital currencies and global trade shifts.

    Usage

    Often used as a compound noun with the subject name, such as 'history textbook' or 'maths textbook'.

  2. 2 perfect or typical example (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    used to describe something that is a perfect example of a rule or a situation.

    having the typical characteristics of a class of phenomenon; serving as a classic or exemplary instance.

    Example

    The doctor said it was a textbook case of the flu.

    Example

    The pilot performed a textbook landing despite the heavy crosswinds, demonstrating the precise technique taught in flight manuals.

    Usage

    Usually placed before the noun it modifies.

Origin

From text + book.

Word family
Idioms1 entry

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