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)