Bookend - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A bookend is a sturdy object placed at the end of a row of books to keep them upright and organized. It can also metaphorically describe something that frames or limits an event or period.
Definition:
A support placed at the end of a row of books to keep them upright.
Synonyms:
book support, shelf end, book holder
Part of Speech:
noun, verb
Antonyms:
disarray, scatter
Common Collocations:
wooden bookend, heavy bookend, decorative bookend, pair of bookends, metal bookend
Derivatives:
bookended, bookending
Usage Tips:
Use "bookend" as a noun for physical supports or as a verb to frame events or ideas at the beginning and end.
Common Phrases:
"bookend the day, " "bookend the conversation, " "bookend the event"
Etymology:
Derived from "book" + "end," first recorded in the early 20th century for literal and figurative uses.
Examples:
- 1. She placed a marble bookend to keep her novels tidy.
- 2. The conference was bookended by keynote speeches from experts.
- 3. His collection lacked bookends, so the books often fell over.
- 4. We used heavy stones as makeshift bookends on the shelf.