Bibliomaniac is a noun that refers to someone who loves books excessively. The proper spelling of this word can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet transcription. The first syllable "biblio" can be pronounced as "bɪblioʊ" with stress on the second syllable. The second syllable "maniac" can be pronounced as "meɪniæk" with stress on the first syllable. Therefore, the correct spelling is "bibliomaniac" and not "bibliomanic" or any other variation. So, if you're passionate about books, you can now spell your love for them correctly.
A bibliomaniac, also known as a bibliomane, is an individual who has an excessive and obsessive love for books. The term derives from the Greek words "biblion," meaning book, and "mania," meaning madness or frenzy. A dictionary definition of bibliomaniac includes facets such as an uncontrollable passion for acquiring and collecting books, often regardless of their content or value.
A bibliomaniac's obsession with books can manifest in various ways. They may spend significant amounts of time and resources hunting for rare editions, first editions, or limited printings of books. Their desire to possess books may surpass their actual capacity to read or appreciate them, resulting in extensive book hoarding. This may lead to overflowing bookshelves, stacks of books occupying every available tabletop and surface, and an overall inability to resist purchasing more books despite limited space.
Bibliomaniacs may experience intense emotional attachment to their collection, valuing books as precious and sacred objects. They may take pleasure in organizing their books meticulously, cataloging them by genre, author, or publishing date. The bibliomaniac's dedication and enthusiasm for books extend beyond mere reading; they revel in the presence of books, imbuing them with a mystical aura and a sense of intellectual status.
While bibliomania can be an enriching and intellectually stimulating passion, it can also present challenges. Financial strain and physical clutter may result from the relentless pursuit of books. Additionally, the bibliomaniac may be compelled to seek validation through the accumulation of books, potentially overlooking the true value of reading and understanding the content.
One who has a rage for books.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "bibliomaniac" has its roots in Greek and Latin. It originates from two main components: "biblio" and "maniac".
1. "Biblio": The term "biblio" comes from the Greek word "biblion", meaning "book". It is often used to denote anything related to books or literature. It is derived from the word "byblos", which originally referred to the inner bark of the papyrus plant used to make books in ancient Egypt.
2. "Maniac": The word "maniac" comes from the Latin "maniacus", derived from the Greek "maniakos", meaning "mad" or "insane". It is used to describe someone who is obsessed, excessively enthusiastic, or crazily passionate about a particular thing or activity.
Therefore, combining "biblio" and "maniac", we get "bibliomaniac".