loose-leaf

adjective

ˈlüs-ˈlēf 

1

: having leaves secured in book form in a cover whose spine may be opened for adding, arranging, or removing leaves

loose-leaf notebook

2

: of, relating to, or used with a loose-leaf binding

loose-leaf paper

Examples of loose-leaf in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

After they got engaged in 2019—Eric hid a diamond ring in a tin of Willow’s favorite loose-leaf tea—they were immediately bombarded with questions about the when and where they were getting married. —Elise Taylor, Vogue, 17 Oct. 2024

Each box contains 15 sachets (there is also a loose-leaf version), and at just 67 cents per sachet, this is definitely a great value. —L. Daniela Alvarez, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 Sep. 2024

The mature audience member’s tea of choice is loose-leaf dandelion. —Sarah Garfinkel, The New Yorker, 10 Sep. 2024

Coffee Grounds and Tea Bags Many gardeners overlook coffee grounds and loose-leaf tea, but these natural items make excellent compost. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 Aug. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1902, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

loose-leaf

adjective

ˈlü-ˈslēf

1

: designed so that sheets (as of paper) can be removed or inserted by opening a locking device

loose-leaf notebook

2

: of, relating to, or used with a loose-leaf binding

loose-leaf paper