A piece of furniture with horizontal shelves designed for storing and displaying books.
Compound word formed from 'book' (Old English 'boc') and 'case' (from Latin 'capsa' meaning box or container). The specific combination emerged in the 17th century as personal libraries became more common among the wealthy.
The design of bookcases reflects the evolution of book sizes - tall shelves were needed for ancient folios, while modern paperbacks led to adjustable shelving. Interestingly, 'barrister's bookcases' have glass doors that slide up rather than swing open, designed to protect legal books from dust in law offices.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.