textbook
TEHKST-buuk
Textbook (noun) means a book used for formal study of a particular subject, especially in schools or universities. Example: “The chemistry textbook cost almost as much as the course itself.”
noun
1
A book used for formal study of a particular subject, especially in schools or universities.
"The chemistry textbook cost almost as much as the course itself."
"Please open your textbook to page ten and read the first paragraph."
"I borrowed a history textbook from the library for the exam."
adj
1
Done in a perfect, exemplary way that could be used as a model case.
"Well done everyone, the tree fell exactly where we planned. That was textbook."
"It was a textbook landing despite the strong crosswind."
"Her calm handling of the complaint was a textbook example of good service."
"The striker scored with a textbook header from the corner."
How to use textbook
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA book used to study a subject, or (as an adjective) a perfect, by-the-book example of something.
Common pairings
textbook example
textbook case
chemistry textbook
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Word forms
- Plural
- textbooks
- Comparative
- more textbook
- Superlative
- most textbook
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The chemistry _____ cost almost as much as the course itself.
Etymology
A straightforward compound of "text" and "book".
Synonyms
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Rhymes for textbook
See all rhymes for textbook →Frequently asked questions
What does “textbook” mean?
The word “textbook” means a book used for formal study of a particular subject, especially in schools or universities. In plain terms, a book used to study a subject, or (as an adjective) a perfect, by-the-book example of something.
How do you pronounce “textbook”?
“Textbook” is pronounced TEHKST-buuk (/ˈtɛkst.bʊk/ in IPA).
How do you use “textbook” in a sentence?
Here is “textbook” used in a sentence: “The chemistry textbook cost almost as much as the course itself.”
What part of speech is “textbook”?
Depending on how it is used, “textbook” can be a noun and an adjective.
Is “textbook” a common word?
“Textbook” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
How many meanings does “textbook” have?
“Textbook” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a book used for formal study of a particular subject, especially in schools or universities.
What is the difference between a textbook and a workbook?
A textbook is a book used for formal study of a subject, typically containing explanations and information, while a workbook usually contains exercises and blank spaces for students to complete as practice. Textbooks are often used alongside workbooks in the same course.
What does it mean to call something "textbook"?
When used as an adjective, textbook describes something done in a perfect, exemplary way that could serve as a model case, such as a "textbook landing" or a "textbook example" of a strategy. This usage draws on the idea of matching the ideal description found in a textbook.
Is "textbook" always a compliment when used as an adjective?
Textbook is usually a compliment, praising something as flawless or perfectly executed, but it can occasionally sound slightly clinical or unoriginal, as if something followed the rules too exactly rather than showing creativity. Context and tone determine which reading applies.
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