book jacket: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B1Neutral
Quick answer
What does “book jacket” mean?
A removable, often illustrated paper or cardboard cover that wraps around a hardback book, protecting it and providing promotional information.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A removable, often illustrated paper or cardboard cover that wraps around a hardback book, protecting it and providing promotional information.
Primarily a protective and marketing sleeve for hardcover books; metaphorically, the outward presentation or first impression of something.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Both 'book jacket' and 'dust jacket' are common in both dialects, with 'dust jacket' being slightly more formal/standard, especially in American publishing contexts. 'Dust wrapper' is a more dated, chiefly British term.
Connotations
Neutral in both. 'Dust jacket' may sound slightly more traditional or bibliophilic.
Frequency
Frequency of use is comparable. 'Book jacket' is perhaps slightly more common in everyday, non-specialist UK speech.
Grammar
How to Use “book jacket” in a Sentence
N + of + N (the book jacket of my first edition)ADJ + N (a tattered book jacket)V + N (to preserve a book jacket)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “book jacket” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
adverb
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
adjective
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in publishing, marketing, and design discussions regarding book presentation and sales.
Academic
Used in library science, book conservation, and bibliography studies.
Everyday
Common when discussing the physical condition or appearance of a book.
Technical
Specific term in bookbinding and antiquarian book trades.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “book jacket”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “book jacket”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “book jacket”
- Using 'book cover' interchangeably (a 'cover' is usually attached; a 'jacket' is removable).
- Spelling as one word: 'bookjacket'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Not exactly. A 'book cover' is usually the permanent binding of the book (hardcover or paperback). A 'book jacket' is a removable paper wrapper that goes *over* a hardcover book's permanent cover.
Typically, no. The illustrated cover of a paperback is attached and integral to the book. Some special edition paperbacks may have a removable 'belly band' or outer sleeve, but this is not standard.
It's a personal preference. Some people remove it to prevent damage or tearing. Others leave it on. Libraries often remove them or cover them in plastic to prolong their life.
Typically the title, author, publisher's logo, a blurb or synopsis, author biography, praise from critics (endorsements), and often the price and ISBN.
A removable, often illustrated paper or cardboard cover that wraps around a hardback book, protecting it and providing promotional information.
Book jacket is usually neutral in register.
Book jacket: in British English it is pronounced /ˈbʊk ˌdʒæk.ɪt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈbʊk ˌdʒæk.ɪt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Don't judge a book by its cover/jacket.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a book wearing a little paper JACKET to keep it warm and clean.
Conceptual Metaphor
CLOTHING FOR AN OBJECT (A book wears a jacket).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of a book jacket?