dime novel

noun

1. a cheap melodramatic or sensational novel, usually in paperback and selling for ten cents, especially such an adventure novel popular c1850 to c1920.

dime novel

noun

1. (formerly) a cheap melodramatic novel, usually in paperback Also called (esp Brit)penny-dreadful

Word History and Origins

Origin of dime novel¹

An Americanism dating back to 1860–65

Example Sentences

But nor do they go for the dime-novel fabulism like Lipsyte's Times battery mate Arthur Daley.

From The Daily Beast

"Thank you," returned Average Jones, enormously entertained by the dime-novel setting which his host had provided for him.

From Project Gutenberg

You ran away like a boy in a dime novel, just because you couldn't stand having anything go wrong.

From Project Gutenberg

No dime-novel scout was ever more unerring in his aim than I would be if I could only get another aim.

From Project Gutenberg

These men usually don a costume like that of the hero of a dime novel.

From Project Gutenberg

"I never read a dime-novel in my life," she interrupted, indignantly.

From Project Gutenberg