open-shelf

[ oh-puhn-shelf ]

adjective

1. open-stack.

Word History and Origins

Origin of open-shelf¹

First recorded in 1815–25

Example Sentences

A: The type of sink vanity I recommend for small bathrooms is an open-style or open-shelf vanity.

From Seattle Times

Open-shelf pieces aren’t ideal for storing pants and sweaters, but they can be handy for baskets and shoes.

From Washington Post

This magnificent brick structure was the first library in the Nordic country to use the new open-shelf system, in which visitors could access books without having to ask a librarian for assistance.

From Architectural Digest

This magnificent brick structure was the first library in the Nordic country to use the new open-shelf system, in which visitors could access books without having to ask a librarian for assistance.

From Architectural Digest

The books were taken from the open-shelf room.

From Project Gutenberg