chapbook

[chap-book]

noun

1. a small book or pamphlet of popular tales, ballads, etc., formerly hawked about by chapmen.

2. a small book or pamphlet, often of poetry.

chapbook

/ ˈtʃæpˌbʊk /

noun

1. a book of popular ballads, stories, etc, formerly sold by chapmen or pedlars

Word History and Origins

Origin of chapbook¹

1790–1800; chap (as in chapman ) + book

Example Sentences

She started a Substack, self-published a paperback booklet known as a chapbook and began her own reading series called Electric Blue, a hybrid of her party life and creative practice.

From Los Angeles Times

The collection includes a selection of Phillip’s work from previous years, along with a lyric prose memoir, “Among the Trees,” and a chapbook, “Star Map with Action Figures.”

From New York Times

Hansel is joined on our Zoom call by Sara Moore Wagner, author of two poetry chapbooks and two full-length collections; most recently: "Hillbilly Madonna," out this November.

From Salon

The reissued album went on sale in 2014, accompanied by a chapbook that included an autobiographical interview with Mr. Haggerty, photos of him and transcriptions of his lyrics.

From New York Times

“Simple Passion” was tiny, 67 pages, practically a chapbook; at 239 pages, “Getting Lost” is, for Ernaux, a monster work, her “From Here to Eternity” or “Infinite Jest.”

From New York Times