Definition

1. Adjective:

   • Having a hard, rigid cover: Describes a book bound with stiff, durable covers, typically made of cardboard covered with cloth, paper, or leather, as opposed to a flexible paper cover.

2. Noun:

   • A book with a hard, rigid cover: A physical book whose pages are enclosed and protected by stiff, durable covers.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:

  • The library prefers to purchase hardcover editions for their durability.
  • She collects first edition hardcover novels by her favorite author.

• Noun:

  • The hardcover of this classic is beautifully illustrated.
  • The book was first released as a hardcover; the paperback version will come out next year.

Advanced Usage

• "Hardcover edition": A specific printing or release of a book in a hardcover format.
  • The signed hardcover edition sold out within hours.

Variants and Related Words

• Hardback: A direct synonym for "hardcover," used as both a noun and an adjective. (e.g., a book).
• Paperback (noun/adjective): A book with a flexible paper cover; the common alternative to a hardcover.
• Dust jacket / Dust cover (noun): The removable paper cover on a hardcover book, often featuring artwork and text.

Synonyms

• Adjective: Hardback, board-bound.
• Noun: Hardback, case-bound book.

Antonyms

• Adjective: Paperback, softcover.
• Noun: Paperback, softcover.

Adjective

1. having a hard back or cover
   • hardback books

Noun

1. a book with cardboard or cloth or leather covers