Definition

Noun: A bookplate is a small, decorative label that is pasted or fixed inside the front cover of a book to identify its owner. It typically bears the owner's name, initials, coat of arms, or a design.

Usage

A bookplate is used to mark personal ownership of a book. It is a formal and traditional way to indicate that a book belongs to a private library or an individual collector. - Example: The rare first edition contained an ornate bookplate from the 19th-century collector. - Example: She designed a custom bookplate with her name and a small image of an owl to put in all her books.

Advanced Usage

• Ex Libris: This Latin phrase, meaning "from the books of," is traditionally printed on bookplates. A bookplate is often referred to as an "ex libris."
  • Example: The antique bookplate was elegantly inscribed with the words "Ex Libris" followed by the owner's name.

Variants and Related Words

• Ex Libris (n): A synonym for a bookplate, especially one bearing this Latin inscription.
• Book Label (n): A less common, more general term for a bookplate.

Synonyms

• Owner's label
• Ex libris

Related Phrases

• To affix a bookplate: To paste or attach a bookplate inside a book.
  • Example: He carefully affixed a bookplate to the inside cover of each volume in his collection.

Noun

1. a label identifying the owner of a book in which it is pasted