The meaning of word changes over time, for sure.

Notebook used to mean papers bound together for writing with pen and pencils, I assume. Sorry, I didn't bother to look up into dictionary.

The laptop computer was introduced against the desktop computer, and the laptop was gradually called notebook since then, as I've experienced over the past 10 years or so.

As I work in computer industry, I've noticed that most of us in computer industry understand notebook as laptop computer, not for notebook for writing or drawing.

I write lots of papers, and when I'm asked how I organize thoughts, I say I jot down keywords and draw flow chart on my notebook first, then use wordprocessor on each section to build up to make it full.

Then I'm asked again what kind of program I use to draw.

And then I explain again, I use pencil and paper notebook first; after that I use notebook computer to write a full section.

I've realized that most people I've met recently understand notebook only as notebook computer.

In my carrying portfolio, I carry both notebook computer and paper notebook to write and draw. So I say I have notebookS in my bag to distinguish notebooks I carry all the time. Frequently I need to explain why I carry paper notebook.

The meaning of word changes over time, and I've experienced it myself. I wished laptop would have lasted so the there's no confusion on notebooks.

(October 29, 2002)