The spelling of the word "pasteboard" can seem confusing because of its unusual pronunciation. It is pronounced /ˈpeɪstbɔːrd/, with stress on the first syllable, and a long "a" sound that is not reflected in the spelling. The "e" in "paste" is silent, and the "a" in "board" is pronounced like "or". Despite the tricky spelling, the word is commonly used in the context of paper products and card games, referring to a stiff cardboard used for making cards, posters, or other stationery items.
Pasteboard is a noun that refers to a thick and stiff type of cardboard, often used for bookbinding or as a backing for paper during artwork or crafting. It is typically made from several layers of paper that are heavily compressed together, resulting in a durable and rigid material.
This type of cardboard is commonly utilized in various industries for its strength and stability. It is frequently employed in bookbinding processes to create the covers of hardback books, providing a solid and protective outer layer. Pasteboard is also utilized as a base for mounting or framing artwork, as its stiffness prevents the paper from warping or bending. This makes it a reliable material for preserving and displaying fragile or valuable works.
Furthermore, pasteboard finds extensive use in the realm of stationery and office supplies. It can be cut into various shapes and sizes for making folders, dividers, and index cards. Its sturdy nature allows for secure storage and easy organization of documents and papers. Additionally, pasteboard is commonly employed in the creation of boxes and packaging materials for shipping or storing goods, as it offers a balance between strength and cost-effectiveness.
Due to its versatility, pasteboard remains a fundamental material in multiple industries and applications, providing stability, protection, and flexibility for various purposes.
• Layers of paper pasted together to make a board.
• Very thick, stiff paper; a stiff material made of sheets of paper pasted together.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "pasteboard" is derived from two separate terms. The first part, "paste", comes from the Old French word "past", which means a kind of dough made from flour and water. The second part, "board", refers to a flat, rigid, and often rectangular piece of material usually made from wood or cardboard.
The combination of these two terms gives us "pasteboard", which originally referred to a type of thick paperboard made by pasting together multiple layers of paper. Over time, "pasteboard" began to be used more generally to refer to any stiff, thick, and heavy type of cardboard or paperboard that could be commonly found in various applications such as bookbinding, packaging, or for creating sturdy game or playing cards.