yearbook

American  

[yeer-book] / ˈyɪərˌbʊk /

noun

1. a book published annually, containing information, statistics, etc., about the past year.

   an encyclopedia yearbook.

2. a book published by the graduating class of a high school or college, containing photographs of class members and commemorating school activities.

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yearbook British  

/ ˈjɪəˌbʊk /

noun

1. an almanac or reference book published annually and containing details of events of the previous year

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Etymology

Origin of yearbook

First recorded in 1580–90; year + book

Explanation

The album of photos that many high schools and colleges offer students at the end of each school year is a yearbook. If you want to be sure to get your picture in the yearbook, join a lot of clubs and teams. A traditional yearbook is a large, bound book organized by class, which includes a photograph of every student. Most yearbooks also feature pictures of teams, school groups and clubs, faculty members, staff, and candid photos taken throughout the school year. In many schools, it's traditional to get your yearbook signed by friends and even teachers. Yearbooks have become less common over the years, as digital equivalents have increased in popularity. Online yearbooks may eventually replace the printed version.

Example Sentences

Ah’Mari said he had little interest in typical high-school activities like prom or yearbook and kept his eyes on “the finish line”—his NIL deal.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 10, 2026

Not even in a photo album or yearbook.

From Slate • Apr. 23, 2026

So, in my high school yearbook, under my picture, it says, “Plans to be a chef.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 30, 2026

Flipping through “City of Angels” feels like going through the ultimate L.A. yearbook, where everybody wins “best dressed.”

From Los Angeles Times • May 21, 2025

“Only members of the yearbook and newspaper staffs are allowed in the office.”

From "Here to Stay" by Sara Farizan

Related Words

• calendar
• journal