bookshelf

American

[book-shelf] / ˈbʊkˌʃɛlf /

noun

plural

bookshelves

a shelf for holding books, especially one of several shelves in a bookcase.

Etymology

Origin of bookshelf

First recorded in 1810–20; book + shelf

Compare meaning

How does bookshelf compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

bookshelf vs. bookcase

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

I helped organize his bookshelf when he moved into that old folks home.

From Salon • Dec. 24, 2025

One of his books, “The Art of the Comeback,” appears on a bookshelf in another photo.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 20, 2025

I made noise intentionally to feel less alone, making broth in the kitchen and shuffling through her bookshelf.

From Los Angeles Times • May 19, 2025

Curators at Moyse's Hall Museum in Bury St Edmunds realised the book, which was on a bookshelf in an office, had been overlooked but it has now gone on display.

From BBC • Apr. 22, 2025

I see the shadow of a wide frame step from behind a bookshelf.

From "The Bletchley Riddle" by Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023