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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.

bookend

/ˈbʊkˌɛnd/ /ˈbʊkˌɛnd/

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.

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