cardboard

[kahrd-bawrd, -bohrd]

noun

1. a thin, stiff pasteboard, used for signs, boxes, etc.

adjective

1. resembling cardboard, especially in flimsiness.

   an apartment with cardboard walls.

2. not fully lifelike; shallow; two-dimensional.

   a play with cardboard characters.

cardboard

/ ˈkɑːdˌbɔːd /

noun

1. 1. a thin stiff board made from paper pulp and used esp for making cartons

   2. ( as modifier )

      cardboard boxes

adjective

1. (prenominal) without substance

   a cardboard smile

   a cardboard general

Word History and Origins

Origin of cardboard¹

First recorded in 1840–50; card ¹ + board

Example Sentences

Along with the customary cardboard cut-outs and decorative gift mugs, a special exhibition stand is displaying a selection of the former Conservative prime minister's most famous outfits from her 11 years in office.

From BBC

The group added supporters were risking arrest under the Terrorism Act, for "silently holding cardboard signs which say 'I oppose genocide. I support Palestine Action'."

From BBC

On the other hand, Bisque — from a litter Carr called “the Soups” — hid in a cardboard house for an hour before she finally stretched a paw out, like a jazz hand through the “front door.”

From Los Angeles Times

A piece of cardboard blowing about in a street in Haringey led to the local council trying to fine a couple £600.

From BBC

"In the hall I've got half a dozen bottles, cardboard, paper and a lot of plastic recycling."

From BBC

Related Words

• badge 
• calendar 
• check 
• label 
• poster 
• program 
• sheet 
• ticket