What does leaflet mean?
A leaflet is a small printed sheet or pamphlet used to communicate information, instructions, advertising, or an argument. Leaflets are usually inexpensive to produce and are designed for quick reading, often using bold headings, brief text, images, and calls to action. The word can also have a botanical meaning: a leaflet is one of the separate divisions of a compound leaf, as in the leaflets of a fern or clover. As a verb, to leaflet means to distribute printed leaflets, usually as part of a campaign or promotional effort. The term is common in public information, marketing, advocacy, tourism, and publishing. Although “leaflet” and “flyer” can overlap, leaflet more often suggests a folded sheet or small publication, whereas flyer may also describe an aircraft or a person who flies.
A small printed sheet or pamphlet giving information, instructions, or advertising. In botany, a leaflet is a separate leaf-like segment of a compound leaf.
"The information leaflet explains the recycling rules in three languages."
The printed sense is dominant today. In publishing, leaflet and brochure overlap, but leaflet usually implies a simpler, less formal piece.
To distribute leaflets, especially as part of a campaign or promotional effort.
"Campaigners leafleted neighborhoods to encourage residents to vote."
This use is especially associated with political, charitable, and promotional campaigns.
The standard plural of the noun is leaflets.
"Several leaflets were placed on the reception desk."
Leaflet literally means “little leaf,” a tiny botanical clue that survives even when the word now means a sheet of paper.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does leaflet come from?
Leaflet is a diminutive formed from the word leaf, meaning “little leaf” or a small leaf-like part. It was used in early modern English for a small leaf and for a leaf or page of a book before developing its modern printed sense of a small pamphlet or information sheet. The same root appears in related words such as foliage, leafy, and foliation.
Related word forms
How leaflet is actually used
Leaflet is standard in both British and American English. In publishing and marketing, a leaflet often suggests a folded, inexpensive printed sheet, while a brochure may be a more formally designed or multi-page publication. The verb is especially associated with campaigns, publicity, and promotional activity.
Easily confused with leaflet
A flyer can also be a small printed handbill, but it may also refer to an aircraft or a person who flies, whereas a leaflet usually suggests a folded sheet or small pamphlet.