DIME NOVEL Meaning and
Definition
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A dime novel is a type of pulp fiction literature that typically measures about five and a half by eight inches in size and is printed on cheap paper, originally sold for ten cents. Originating in the mid-19th century, dime novels gained immense popularity, especially in the United States, during the late 1800s and early 1900s.
These novels often featured serialized stories set in the American Wild West or sensational tales of adventure, crime, romance, or mystery. Dime novels were known for their thrilling and melodramatic plots, exaggerated characters, and simplistic writing style, making them accessible and enjoyable for a wide audience.
The success of dime novels can be attributed to their affordability and easy availability in bookstores, as well as their entertaining nature that appealed to both urban and rural readers. In an era of limited entertainment options, dime novels provided a form of escapism and entertainment for the masses.
Over time, dime novels evolved into other forms such as pulp magazines and comic books, but they laid the foundation for popular genres and storytelling techniques that continue to thrive in modern literature and media. Despite their literary significance, dime novels were often criticized for their lack of literary merit, being dismissed as sensational and lowbrow entertainment.
In summary, a dime novel refers to a type of inexpensive, widely accessible pulp fiction literature that gained popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries due to their thrilling and melodramatic storytelling, primarily available in serialized form, captivating readers with tales of adventure, romance, mystery, and crime.
Common Misspellings for DIME NOVEL
- sime novel
- xime novel
- cime novel
- fime novel
- rime novel
- eime novel
- dume novel
- djme novel
- dkme novel
- dome novel
- d9me novel
- d8me novel
- dine novel
- dike novel
- dije novel
- dimw novel
- dims novel
- dimd novel
- dimr novel
Etymology of DIME NOVEL
The term "dime novel" originated in the United States in the mid-19th century. It refers to a type of inexpensive paperback book that typically sold for ten cents, hence the name "dime novel". These novels were popular among the working-class population, as they were affordable and accessible.
The etymology of the word "dime" traces back to the Old French word "disme", meaning "one-tenth". The term was initially used to refer to a unit of currency equal to one-tenth of a dollar. In the 19th century, the United States began minting coins worth ten cents, and they were informally referred to as "dimes".
The word "novel" comes from the Latin word "novellus", meaning "new". It entered the English language in the 16th century and initially referred to any new and original narrative work of fiction.
Similar spelling word for DIME NOVEL
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