ex libris

[ eks lee-bris, lahy- ]

1. from the library of (a phrase inscribed in or on a book before the name of the owner):

   Ex libris Jane Doe.

noun

, plural ex li·bris

1. an inscription in or on a book, to indicate the owner; bookplate.

ex libris

/ ɛks ˈliːbrɪs /

adjective

1. from the collection or library of: frequently printed on bookplates

noun

1. a bookplate bearing the owner's name, coat of arms, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of ex libris¹

First recorded in 1875–80, ex libris is from Latin ex lībrīs “out of the books (of), from the books (of)”

Word History and Origins

Origin of ex libris¹

C19: from Latin, literally: from the books (of)

Example Sentences

The Book Pharmacy, based in Berlin, aims as much to bring readers the right books—like a personal librarian—as to tack an “Rx” to ex libris.

From Wall Street Journal

It was very nice of you to write me such an extensive letter upon finding a book on your bookshelf with the ex libris of my daughter, Margot.

From Time

These are literally derived “ex libris,” and the business cannot be indulged, as a general thing, without in some sense despoiling books.

From Project Gutenberg

Our copy is in the original full calf gold stamped binding, with the ex libris of James Maidment.

From Project Gutenberg

We had always thought that the first of these phrases was plain sailing, and that the second meant, "this a book of John's books—or, one of John's books," ex libris Joannis.

From Project Gutenberg