hardcover
UK: ˈhɑːdkʌvə | US: ˈhɑːrdkʌvər
n. a book bound with stiff covers, typically made of cardboard covered in cloth or paper
adj. (of a book) having a stiff cover
The word "hardcover" is a compound of "hard" (from Old English "heard," meaning firm or solid) and "cover" (from Old French "covrir," meaning to protect or conceal). It emerged in the early 20th century to describe books with durable, rigid bindings, contrasting with "paperback." The term reflects the physical robustness of such books, emphasizing their protective outer layer.
The library prefers hardcover editions because they last longer.
She collects hardcover classics for her personal library.
This hardcover novel is more expensive than the paperback version.
The hardcover design protects the pages from damage.
Publishers often release hardcover books before the paperback editions.