English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology
FreeDict.com
noun A2 Elementary

bookshelf

BUUK-shehlf

Bookshelf (noun) means a shelf, or set of shelves, used to store and display books. Example: “His bookshelf sagged under the weight of old encyclopedias.”

noun
1
A shelf, or set of shelves, used to store and display books.
"His bookshelf sagged under the weight of old encyclopedias."

How to use bookshelf

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA shelf built or used for storing books.

Common mistake

A "bookshelf" can be a single shelf or part of a larger unit, while a "bookcase" refers to the whole freestanding piece of furniture.

Easily confused with

Word forms

bookshelves plural

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.
Test yourself on “bookshelf” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

His _____ sagged under the weight of old encyclopedias.

Etymology

A compound of "book" and "shelf."

Frequently asked questions

What does “bookshelf” mean?

The word “bookshelf” means a shelf, or set of shelves, used to store and display books. In plain terms, a shelf built or used for storing books.

How do you pronounce “bookshelf”?

“Bookshelf” is pronounced BUUK-shehlf (/ˈbʊkˌʃɛlf/ in IPA).

How do you use “bookshelf” in a sentence?

Here is “bookshelf” used in a sentence: “His bookshelf sagged under the weight of old encyclopedias.”

What part of speech is “bookshelf”?

“Bookshelf” is a noun.

Featured in

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial