# textbook

/ˈtɛkstˌbʊk/ (US) · /tˈɛkstbʊk/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/textbook
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. educational book

noun · CEFR A2

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

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

- I need to buy a new biology textbook for my science class next week.
- 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. perfect or typical example

adjective · CEFR B2

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

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

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

## Examples

- I need to buy a new biology textbook for my class.
- The professor assigned three chapters from the history textbook to be read before the next lecture.
- While the digital version is more portable, many students still prefer the physical textbook for its ease of annotation and the lack of screen-induced eye strain during long study sessions.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.