foldout: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal/Technical
Quick answer
What does “foldout” mean?
something designed to be unfolded or opened out from a folded position, often part of a larger publication or piece of furniture.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
something designed to be unfolded or opened out from a folded position, often part of a larger publication or piece of furniture
A page, section, diagram, or insert in a book, magazine, or brochure that is larger than the publication's standard pages and is folded to fit; also used for certain types of foldable furniture like sofa beds
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Spelling: British English sometimes uses hyphen ('fold-out') more frequently than American English, though both forms exist. The unhyphenated 'foldout' is now standard in both varieties for the noun.
Connotations
No significant connotative differences. Both varieties associate it with publishing, furniture, and occasionally maps or technical diagrams.
Frequency
Similar frequency in both varieties. Possibly slightly more common in American English in furniture contexts (e.g., 'foldout sofa').
Grammar
How to Use “foldout” in a Sentence
foldout of [something]foldout in [a publication]foldout from [a magazine]foldout showing [details]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “foldout” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The brochure included a helpful fold-out map of the London Underground.
- They slept on the old fold-out bed in the study.
American English
- The textbook has a foldout timeline of American history.
- We need a foldout sofa for the guests.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
In marketing materials, brochures, or annual reports containing large diagrams or charts.
Academic
In textbooks or journals for complex illustrations, timelines, or maps.
Everyday
Referring to a sofa bed or a large map in a travel guide.
Technical
In engineering manuals, architectural plans, or product specifications showing detailed schematics.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “foldout”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “foldout”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “foldout”
- Using 'foldout' as a verb (incorrect: 'Foldout the map.' Correct: 'Unfold the map' or 'Open the foldout.'). Confusing it with 'foldable' (which describes general ability to fold).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Both 'foldout' (one word) and 'fold-out' (hyphenated) are found, especially in attributive use ('foldout page' / 'fold-out page'). The one-word form is increasingly standard for the noun. Check specific style guides.
No, 'foldout' is not standard as a verb. The related action is 'unfold', 'open out', or 'pull out'. 'Foldout' describes the object itself.
They are often synonyms, especially in publishing. 'Foldout' emphasises the folding/unfolding action, while 'pullout' can emphasise removal (like a detachable supplement). A 'foldout' is not necessarily detachable.
Very similar. 'Foldout bed' often describes the mechanism (folding out from a piece of furniture like a sofa or cabinet). 'Sofa bed' specifies the piece of furniture (a sofa that converts into a bed, often via a foldout mechanism).
something designed to be unfolded or opened out from a folded position, often part of a larger publication or piece of furniture.
Foldout is usually formal/technical in register.
Foldout: in British English it is pronounced /ˈfəʊldaʊt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈfoʊldaʊt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None specific to 'foldout' as a standalone term”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a map that FOLDs OUT to reveal more detail than a regular page.
Conceptual Metaphor
EXPANSION IS REVEALING (the folded state conceals, the unfolded state reveals information/space)
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'foldout' LEAST likely to be used?