Meaning & Definition of word "Cardboard"

Cardboard

/ˈkɑːrd.bɔːrd/

noun:

  • 1. A material made from pressed pulp, often used for making boxes and other products.
    • Example: The package arrived in a sturdy cardboard box.
  • 2. A thick paper material that can be used for various crafts and designs.
    • Example: She created an art project using colorful pieces of cardboard.
  • 3. A lightweight but rigid material, typically made from recycled paper, commonly used in packaging and crafts.
    • Example: He used cardboard to support the base of his model airplane.

adjective:

  • 1. Made of or resembling cardboard, often in reference to a cheap or flimsy quality.
    • Example: The costume looked impressive, but it was made from cardboard materials.

Etymology

The term derives from the word 'card', with 'board' referring to the thick paper material.

Common Phrases and Expressions

cardboard cutout:

A life-size representation of a person or object made from cardboard.

cardboard city:

A term used to describe a settlement of homeless people living in cardboard structures.

Related Words

paper:

The material from which cardboard is made.

box:

A container, often made of cardboard, used for storage.

Slang Meanings of cardboard

Meaning: Refers to something lacking depth or substance.

Example Sentence: His cardboard opinions don't really matter.

Meaning: Used to describe an overly simplistic view or argument.

Example Sentence: That explanation was just cardboard; it didn't address the real issues.