A press or device used to flatten, compress, or bind books, especially during the binding or drying process.
From 'book' and 'press' (Old French 'presse,' from Latin 'pressare,' to press), a compound word naming a specific tool used in bookmaking.
Old bookpresses were heavy iron contraptions with wooden screws—they required enormous strength to operate, which is why bookbinding was traditionally a male-dominated craft that valued physical strength.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.