Boek

Boek is the Dutch word for a book, a bound collection of written or printed pages protected by a cover. The term can refer to a single volume, a work within a series, or literature in general. It is cognate with the German Buch and the English book, sharing a common Proto-Germanic origin.

Historically, books originated from scrolls and manuscripts; the introduction of movable type in the 15th century by printers in Europe enabled mass production and widespread distribution. Since then, books have played a central role in education, science, and culture. In contemporary usage, a boek may exist in print or as a digital edition.

Structure and format: In Dutch usage, a boek typically includes front matter (title page, copyright), the main text divided into chapters, and back matter (index, bibliography). Pages are bound along a spine, with a cover that identifies the work. Modern publishing offers hardcover and paperback formats, as well as electronic editions (e-books) and audio formats.

Categories and use: Books span fiction, non-fiction, reference, textbooks, and more. Libraries and bookstores organize them by author, title, subject, and classification. The boek remains a primary vehicle for knowledge, storytelling, and cultural transmission, even as digital media expands its reach.