rare book

American  

noun

1. a book that is distinguished by its early printing date, its limited issue, the special character of the edition or binding, or its historical interest.

---

Etymology

Origin of rare book

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

rare book

Despite the tensions between these audiences, Mr. Ryrie has produced the rare book that deserves attention from both believers and skeptics.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 19, 2026

Ethan Hawke, here called Lee Raybon, is a Tulsa amateur “truthstorian” and rare book dealer, working and living in a store where the cool people hang out.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 21, 2025

Hitler’s original copy is in the rare book collection, along with 1,200 of his other books, at the Library of Congress.

From Salon ● Jul. 30, 2024

In 2022, a rare book laced with arsenic was discovered by librarians in Leeds.

From BBC ● Apr. 25, 2024

“Well, anyway, even if this wasn’t a rare book it means a lot to me, and I’d like to be sure it’s in safe hands for a while. Just till I come back for it.”

From "Inkheart" by Cornelia Funke