bookshelf

[/ˈbʊkʃɛlf/]
nounpl: bookshelves
prateleira de livros
1. a shelf or set of shelves, typically on a wall or as part of a piece of furniture, for storing and displaying books
She organized all her novels on the bookshelf in her bedroom.
Ela organizou todos os seus romances na prateleira de livros do seu quarto.
2. a piece of furniture designed specifically to hold books, consisting of multiple shelves
The antique bookshelf in the library holds first editions.
A prateleira de livros antiga na biblioteca contém primeiras edições.
In both American and Brazilian cultures, a bookshelf is often considered a reflection of one's education level and cultural sophistication. In Brazil, having an 'estante' filled with books is traditionally viewed as a sign of intellectual status, particularly among middle and upper-class households. The aesthetic arrangement of bookshelves has become popular on social media in recent years.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
shelfbookcaseshelving unitbook rack

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
prateleira de livros
most common standard term
General Brazilian
estante
also widely used for larger units or bookcases
Rio de Janeiro
estante de livros
preferred term in colloquial speech
São Paulo
prateleira de livros
standard usage
Portugal
prateleira de livros
standard European Portuguese equivalent

Related Words

bookbookcaselibraryshelffurniturestorage

Related Idioms & Phrases

fill a bookshelf - to accumulate books over time
a well-stocked bookshelf - sign of intelligence or culture
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