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.

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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'."

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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.”

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

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

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Related Words

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