What does subnotebook mean?
A subnotebook is a small book used for writing notes, although the word became especially associated with computing. In the late twentieth century, “subnotebook computer” referred to a portable computer smaller and lighter than the notebook computers then available. Such machines were valued by frequent travelers and students because they combined a keyboard and screen with relatively little weight and bulk. As portable computers became thinner, more powerful, and more affordable, this distinct category largely disappeared, and the everyday term laptop became more appropriate. Outside technology, a subnotebook remains a fairly uncommon name for a pocket-sized notebook or writing pad. The word is useful as a reminder that computers once had clearly defined size categories: desktop, notebook, and subnotebook. Although “small notebook” is perfectly clear in modern speech, “subnotebook” preserves both the literal sense of a smaller notebook and the history of mobile computing.
nounA small notebook. In computing, the term formerly denoted a portable computer smaller and lighter than a typical notebook computer.
- A portable computer smaller and lighter than a typical notebook computer, especially in historical classifications.
- A small notebook or writing pad.
"She jotted the address down in a pocket-sized subnotebook."
"The company introduced a subnotebook designed for students who needed to carry it between classes."
"He kept a list of possible books in a small subnotebook."
The usual plural is “subnotebooks,” referring to multiple small notebooks or portable computers.
"The shop sells lightweight subnotebooks for travelers."
Before compact laptops became ordinary, a subnotebook was a portable computer distinguished chiefly by being smaller and lighter.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of subnotebook
The word is a modern compound of sub-, meaning under or below, and notebook. The element notebook combines note with book and originally referred to a book in which notes or accounts were kept; notebook computer is a later application of the same compound to a portable computer. Subnotebook developed in the twentieth century, first as a description of a smaller notebook and later as a category of compact portable computer.
How subnotebook is actually used
In computing, the word is largely historical and is less common than laptop or notebook computer today. As a physical object, it is uncommon but remains readily understandable.
Easily confused with subnotebook
A notebook is a book or computer of a standard general size, whereas a subnotebook is distinguished as a smaller or lighter version.
Laptop is the modern general term for a portable computer, while subnotebook was chiefly a historical classification for especially small and lightweight portable models.