ex libris

[eks lee-bris, lahy-]

from the library of (a phrase inscribed in or on a book before the name of the owner): Ex libris Jane Doe.

noun, plural ex li·bris

an inscription in or on a book, to indicate the owner; bookplate.

Origin of ex libris

First recorded in 1875–80, ex libris is from the Latin word ex lībrīs out of the books (of), from the books (of)

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

Examples from the Web for ex libris

Historical Examples of ex libris

The ex-libris of the Citizen Boyveau-Laffecteur may be cited as an example.
French Book-plates
Walter Hamilton
The collector must be on his guard against modern reprints from old plates, or ex-libris printed from re-engraved copper plates.
French Book-plates
Walter Hamilton
The ex-libris of Lyons are especially notable for their magnitude, as, for example, that of Claude Ruffier.
French Book-plates
Walter Hamilton
On account of its extreme rarity this ex-libris had long been the subject of doubt and curiosity to collectors, even Mons.
French Book-plates
Walter Hamilton
Unfortunately it was dispersed on his decease, and his ex-libris given herewith is consequently scarce.
French Book-plates
Walter Hamilton

British Dictionary definitions for ex libris

ex libris

adjective

from the collection or library of: frequently printed on bookplates

noun ex-libris

a bookplate bearing the owner's name, coat of arms, etc

Word Origin for ex libris

C19: from Latin, literally: from the books (of)

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Word Origin and History for ex libris

Latin, literally "out of the books (of)," from ex "out of" (see ex-) + ablative plural of liber "book" (see library).