What does softback mean?
A softback is a book whose cover and binding are made from flexible material rather than rigid boards. It is an alternative name for a paperback and is especially common in British English, although the word is also understood in American English. A second, less common use describes a chair with an upholstered or padded back, particularly when furniture is being listed or compared. In the book sense, the term emphasizes the physical construction of the volume rather than its subject matter or intended readership. It contrasts with a hardback, whose covers are supported by rigid boards. Though useful when distinguishing binding formats, “softback” is more conversational than the more established term “paperback,” and many speakers use the latter regardless of where they live.
A book issued with a flexible paper or card cover rather than rigid boards.
"The publisher released the revised edition as a softback."
Common chiefly in British English and informal contexts; “paperback” is the more universally used term.
A chair with an upholstered or padded back.
"A deep softback provides more support than an upright dining chair."
A specialized furniture term, most often encountered in descriptions, reviews, and sales listings.
The regular plural is used for books or chairs of this kind.
"Several well-thumbed softbacks were stacked beside the armchair."
A softback is essentially a paperback, but “soft” refers to the flexible binding rather than to the paper itself.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does softback come from?
“Softback” is an English compound formed from “soft” and “back,” describing either a book with a flexible back or a chair with a padded or upholstered back. The compound arose as a practical description of bindings and furniture. Its history parallels that of related compounds such as “hardback,” although “softback” remained less prominent than the standard term “paperback” for books issued with flexible covers.
Related word forms
How softback is actually used
The book sense is widespread but informal and more common in British English, where “paperback” is also widely used. The furniture sense is chiefly found in descriptive or sales contexts.
Easily confused with softback
A softback has a flexible cover, whereas a hardback is bound in rigid boards.