Definition

Noun: A talking book is a sound recording of a book being read aloud. It is a format frequently used to provide access to written material for people who are blind or have visual impairments, as well as for others who prefer auditory learning or consumption of books.

Usage

The term is used specifically to refer to the audio version of a book, often produced by professional narrators. It is a compound noun that functions as a single unit.

Examples

• The library has an extensive collection of talking books for its visually impaired patrons.
• She listened to the talking book of the novel during her long commute.
• Many classic works of literature are available as talking books.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often associated with services and organizations dedicated to accessibility, such as the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled in the United States, which provides talking books.
• In contemporary usage, the commercial term "audiobook" is more common in general contexts, while "talking book" retains a specific association with accessibility services.

Variants and Related Words

• Audiobook (n): A commercially produced and distributed recording of a book being read. This is now the more prevalent general term.
• Audio recording (n): A broader term for any recorded sound, which can include talking books.

Synonyms

• Audiobook
• Spoken-word recording
• Audio book (less common variant spelling)

Notes on Meaning

• The core meaning is an audio recording of a narrated book.
• Its primary connotation is linked to accessibility for the blind and visually impaired, distinguishing it slightly from the more commercially oriented "audiobook," though the terms are often used interchangeably today.

Noun

1. sound recording of someone reading a book; frequently used by blind people