Flyleaves

/ˈflaɪˌlivz/ noun

Definition

Plural of flyleaf; multiple blank pages at the front or back of a book used for protection or personal notes.

Etymology

Standard plural of 'flyleaf,' formed by adding '-es' (from Old English pluralization patterns). The term has been in use since the 18th century and represents the standard way English forms plurals of compound nouns ending in 'leaf.'

Kelly Says

In rare and valuable books, flyleaves can dramatically increase value—an inscribed first edition with a famous person's signature on the flyleaf might be worth thousands more than an unmarked copy! Conservators now use acid-free paper for replacement flyleaves to protect precious texts.

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