loose-leaf

American  

[loos-leef] / ˈlusˌlif /

adjective

1. (of a book, notebook, etc.) consisting of individual leaves held in a binder loose-leaf binder, as by rings that open and close, in such a way as to allow their removal, return, or replacement without tearing.

2. of or for use with a loose-leaf binder.

   loose-leaf paper.

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loose-leaf British  

adjective

1. (of a binder, album, etc) capable of being opened to allow removal and addition of pages

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noun

1. a serial publication published in loose leaves and kept in such a binder

Etymology

Origin of loose-leaf

First recorded in 1900–05

Example Sentences

This specific variety is “made of smooth Chinese loose leaf green tea leaves naturally scented by layers of jasmine buds,” according to the tea’s description.

From Salon • Apr. 18, 2025

But Andrew Mayes, an emeritus professor of chemistry at the University of East Anglia, told the BBC the best advice for those concerned by that issue would be to opt for loose leaf tea.

From BBC • Sep. 14, 2023

At the Golden Triangle Shop, customers can bring in a jar or container to fill with hand soap, shampoo or loose leaf teas.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 16, 2023

Don W.: Keeping your favorite recipes in a loose leaf binder is a great way to have your favorite recipes at your fingertips.

From Washington Post • Nov. 1, 2021

I also had to fit in a pyramid tin from Rose City Teas: some loose leaf FTGFOP1 First Flush Darjeeling I bought as a gift for Mamou.

From "Darius the Great Is Not Okay" by Adib Khorram