deckle edge

noun

1. the irregular, untrimmed edge of handmade paper, often used for ornamental effect in fine books and stationery, now often produced artificially on machine-made paper.

deckle edge

noun

1. the rough edge of handmade paper, caused by pulp seeping between the mould and the deckle: often left as ornamentation in fine books and writing papers
2. a trimmed edge imitating this

Derived Forms

• ˈdeckle-ˈedged, adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of deckle edge¹

First recorded in 1870–75

Example Sentences

So far has this craze gone, that machine-made paper is often put through an extra process to give it a sham deckle edge.

From Project Gutenberg

Printed on the finest deckle edge paper and bound in the best silk finished cloth, with frontispiece and rubricated title page.

From Project Gutenberg

Handsomely bound in cloth, gilt tops, and printed on old Chester antique deckle edge paper.

From Project Gutenberg

The paper for the series will be specially made, deckle edge, with wide margins for readers' and students' notes.

From Project Gutenberg

It is hard to turn to the page you want, with the deckle edge you now have.

From Project Gutenberg