The spelling of the word "softcovered" is often disputed. Some argue that it should be spelled with a hyphen, while others prefer the solid form. Phonetically, the word is pronounced as sɒftˈkʌvəd, with emphasis on the second syllable. The "soft" part of the word is pronounced as "sawft," with the "t" sounding like a "d" due to the preceding vowel. The "covered" portion is pronounced as "kuhv-uh-rd," with emphasis on the second syllable once again.
Softcovered refers to an item or object that is protected or enclosed by a cover made of a flexible, pliable, or padded material that is typically not rigid or hard. This term is often used to describe books, journals, notebooks, or other printed materials that have a cover made of a soft, bendable material, such as paperback or cardstock.
Softcovered books, for instance, are bound in a way that allows the covers to be easily opened and flexed, enabling the book to be more portable and lightweight compared to their hardcovered counterparts. These covers are typically made from materials like paper, cardboard, or laminated fabric, offering flexibility and ease of use.
The purpose of using a softcover is to provide protection to the enclosed item while still maintaining a certain level of comfort and flexibility for the user. Softcovers are often preferred for their affordability, portability, and lightweight nature, making them ideal for everyday use or travel. They also allow for easy handling, bending, and storage, as they can be easily folded, rolled, or placed in bags or pockets.
In summary, softcovered refers to an item that has a cover made of a pliable, flexible, or padded material, providing protection while being lightweight, portable, and easily maneuverable.
The word "softcovered" does not have a specific etymology as it is a combination of two separate words: "soft" and "covered".
The word "soft" originated from Old English "sōfte" and can be traced back to Proto-Germanic "samftijaz". It refers to something that is not hard or firm, having a gentle or yielding texture.
The word "covered" comes from Old English "covert" which ultimately derives from Latin "cooperire", meaning "to cover". It denotes the action of placing a layer or covering over something.
Therefore, when these two words are combined, "softcovered" simply implies that something is covered or enclosed by a soft material or surface. However, this specific term might not be widely recognized or used, as the more common term is "softcover" to describe a book or publication with a flexible paper or cardboard cover.