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Synonyms

graphic novel

American  

noun

  1. a novel in the form of comic strips.


graphic novel British  

noun

  1. a novel in the form of a comic strip

"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

Etymology

Origin of graphic novel

First recorded in 1985–90

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

In interviews, Shaboozey has mentioned wanting to turn this record’s story into a graphic novel, or an extended music video, and it’s not hard to imagine a future for him in the film industry.

From The Wall Street Journal Aug. 4, 2026

The law was passed in 2023, 13 years after Chicago Public Schools, without explanation or warning, removed Marjane Satrapi’s graphic novel autobiography “Persepolis” from classrooms and libraries, sparking a student movement against censorship.

From Salon Jun. 20, 2026

The production operates like an operatic graphic novel and live animated film charmingly all in one.

From Los Angeles Times Jun. 5, 2026

French-Iranian author, director, illustrator and activist Marjane Satrapi, best known for her graphic novel series and film Persepolis, has died aged 56, the Élysée Palace in Paris has confirmed.

From BBC Jun. 4, 2026

“I heard you’re working on a graphic novel of the Prophet’s life,” she continues, ignoring me.

From "Saints and Misfits" by S.K. Ali

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