paperweight

noun

pa·​per·​weight ˈpā-pər-ˌwāt How to pronounce paperweight (audio)
: a usually small heavy object used to hold down loose papers (as on a desk)

Examples of paperweight in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Kong became intrigued after noticing that the Hong Kong Monetary Authority visitor center sells souvenir paperweights filled with shredded notes. The Physics Arxiv Blog, Discover Magazine, 23 Jan. 2024 Indeed, Hermès’s paperweights are known to run up a tab. Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 3 Jan. 2024 For the packaging and store interiors, designer and co-founder Teo Yang drew inspiration from Seoul’s old-timey apothecaries and medical libraries—the signature bottle shape resembles a stack of books topped with a pebble paperweight. Chris Schalkx, Condé Nast Traveler, 27 Nov. 2023 The prosecutor also said investigators found obvious signs of an intense struggle in one of the bedrooms of the D'Amore home, including broken furniture and a crystal paperweight covered in blood. Bill Hutchinson, ABC News, 28 June 2023 Investigators found a crystal paperweight covered in blood in the bedroom where the bodies were discovered, Ryan said, and a knife with red and brown stains was found in the kitchen. John Hilliard, BostonGlobe.com, 26 June 2023 And not long ago, that big, immovable paperweight was ready to lift off. Steve Hartman, CBS News, 11 Aug. 2023 The collection, which includes an array of bedding, artwork, paperweights, pillows, shower curtains and more is filled with gorgeous pieces that embody Drew’s boho outlook. Megan Stein, Peoplemag, 2 Aug. 2023 An amber-colored glass paperweight sits in my nightstand drawer. Annie Midori Atherton, The Atlantic, 11 July 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'paperweight.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1822, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of paperweight was in 1822

Dictionary Entries Near paperweight

Cite this Entry

“Paperweight.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/paperweight. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

paperweight

noun
pa·​per·​weight ˈpā-pər-ˌwāt How to pronounce paperweight (audio)
: an object used to hold down loose papers by its weight

More from Merriam-Webster on paperweight

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