dog-ear: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Neutral to Informal
Quick answer
What does “dog-ear” mean?
A folded-down corner of a page in a book, used as a marker.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A folded-down corner of a page in a book, used as a marker.
To fold down the corner of a page; by extension, any worn or damaged corner on a book, paper, or document.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Both noun and verb forms are used in both variants. The hyphenated form 'dog-ear' is standard, though 'dog ear' (two words) is also seen.
Connotations
Slightly negative, implying a lack of care for books. Neutral in casual reference to a temporary bookmark.
Frequency
Comparatively low frequency in both, but understood. More common in spoken than formal written English.
Grammar
How to Use “dog-ear” in a Sentence
[Subject] dog-ears [Object (page/book)][Subject] is dog-earedVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “dog-ear” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- Please don't dog-ear the pages of the library book.
- She had dog-eared every recipe she wanted to try.
American English
- He tends to dog-ear his textbooks instead of using bookmarks.
- I must have dog-eared that page for a reason.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Might refer to a worn document or manual.
Academic
Used in library science or book conservation contexts, often negatively.
Everyday
Common when discussing reading habits or second-hand books.
Technical
In printing/bookbinding, refers to a specific type of damage.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “dog-ear”
- Using 'dog-ear' as an uncountable noun (e.g., 'There is dog-ear on the page'). It is countable.
- Confusing 'dog-eared' (adjective) with 'dog-ear' (noun/verb).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
The standard form is hyphenated: 'dog-ear' (noun and verb). 'Dog ear' (two words) is a common variant. 'Dog-ear' is listed in major dictionaries.
It is generally frowned upon, especially for library books, valuable editions, or borrowed items, as it causes permanent damage. For personal, disposable paperbacks, it's a matter of personal habit.
A 'dog-ear' is the act of folding the page itself to mark it, damaging the paper. A 'bookmark' is a separate object placed between the pages, leaving no damage.
Yes. 'Dog-eared' can describe anything that is worn, well-used, or shabby from frequent handling (e.g., 'a dog-eared proposal', 'dog-eared memories').
A folded-down corner of a page in a book, used as a marker.
Dog-ear is usually neutral to informal in register.
Dog-ear: in British English it is pronounced /ˈdɒɡ ɪə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈdɔːɡ ɪr/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “"Don't dog-ear my books!"”
- “"a dog-eared copy" (meaning well-used and worn)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a dog's floppy ear - it bends over, just like the corner of a page.
Conceptual Metaphor
A PAGE IS A LIVING ENTITY (its corner is an 'ear' that can be bent).
Practice
Quiz
What does the adjective 'dog-eared' typically imply about a book?