ex-libris

A small ex-libris is pasted inside the front cover of the book.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A bookplate: "ex-libris" refers to a decorative label or plate pasted inside the front cover of a book, typically bearing the owner's name, initials, or coat of arms, indicating ownership. It is often used by collectors or libraries.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The rare book had an elegant ex-libris featuring the owner's family crest. (A decorative label showing ownership.)
  • He collected antique ex-libris from various authors' personal libraries. (Bookplates used by book owners.)

Advanced Usage

• "To bear an ex-libris": to have a bookplate indicating ownership.

  • The volume bears an ex-libris from the 18th century. (The book has a historical ownership label.)

• "Ex-libris collection": a collection of bookplates as an art form or historical record.

  • The museum displayed an ex-libris collection from famous bibliophiles. (A curated set of bookplates.)

Variants and Related Words

• Bookplate (n): a synonym for ex-libris, specifically a label indicating ownership.

  • The library's bookplate featured a motto in Latin. (A decorative ownership label.)

• Ex-librist (n): a person who collects or studies bookplates.

  • She is a renowned ex-librist with a vast archive. (A specialist in bookplates.)

Synonyms

• Bookplate: a label pasted into a book to show ownership.
• Ownership mark: any symbol or inscription indicating possession, though less specific than ex-libris.

Related Idioms

• "Ex-libris" (used as a possessive phrase in Latin): literally meaning "from the books of," often followed by the owner's name.
  • Ex-libris John Smith (From the books of John Smith — inscribed on a bookplate.)

Notes

• The term "ex-libris" is derived from Latin, meaning "from the books (of)." It is typically used in formal or academic contexts, especially in bibliophilia (book collecting). It is rarely used as a verb or in everyday conversation.