(linguistics) A word that is encountered in writing but not usually in speech, which people may therefore not know how to pronounce (correctly).

plural of book word

Teaching from textbooks, rather than by hands-on experience.

(historical) A book, in diary form, in which one's friends enter their birthdates in their own handwriting.

plural of birthday book

A smooth form of the Pahlavi script in which letters are joined to each other and often form complicated ligatures.

(authorship) A series of public events performed by authors in order to promote a newly-released book, including book signings, media appearances, etc.

plural of field book

A reference book containing practical information prepared by, or intended for, people doing fieldwork.

(derogatory) playing cards, regarded as sinful because of the connection with gambling