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sketch-pad

/ˈsketʃ.pæd/
IELTSAcademic
noun

A sketch-pad is a pad of blank paper used for drawing, quick sketches, or rough notes. It is usually easy to carry and made for pencil, pen, or charcoal.

  • I keep a sketch-pad in my backpack.
  • She drew the house on a sketch-pad.
  • He used a sketch-pad during the meeting.

Adinary Nuance

A sketch-pad is not just any notebook. A notebook is for writing, while a sketch-pad is made for drawing. Compared with a drawing book, sketch-pad often suggests quick practice, rough ideas, and portable use.

In other languages

Vietnamese
giấy vẽ
Spanish
bloc de dibujo
Chinese
素描本
Japanese
スケッチブック
Korean
스케치북

Etymology

Sketch-pad is a compound of sketch and pad. It became common in English as a practical name for a pad made for quick drawing and rough work.

Common phrases

a sketch-pad and pencilcarry a sketch-padfill a sketch-pad

Synonyms

Related words

Frequently asked questions

Is sketch-pad the same as sketchbook?
They are very similar. A sketch-pad is often a pad with tear-off sheets, while a sketchbook usually has bound pages.
Is sketch-pad used more for art or writing?
It is mainly used for art and drawing, not for regular writing.
Is sketch-pad a common word in English?
Yes, but people also say drawing pad or sketchbook.
Can I use sketch-pad in business writing?
Yes, if you are talking about design, drawing, or creative work.