/book"werrk'/ , n.
1. work or research that requires studying or reading, as distinguished from laboratory experimentation or the like.
2. bookkeeping or other paperwork necessary to the running of a business.
3. Print. work on books or pamphlets, as distinguished from work on newspapers.
Also, book-work .
[ 1840-50; BOOK + WORK; cf. OE bocweorc study, independently formed from same elements ]