chapbook

Etymology

Formerly sold by chapmen; see the etymology there, and book.

noun

  1. A small book, usually made from a single sheet, folded several times, containing poems, ballads or religious tracts.“1849 Notices of Fugitive Tracts: And Chap-books Printed at Aldermary Churchyard, Bow Churchyard, Etc This was, till within the last few years, a favourite chapbook in the north of England.”