HORNBOOK

hornbook

(noun) a primer that provides instruction in the rudiments or basic skills of a branch of knowledge

Source: WordNet® 3.1

Etymology

Noun

hornbook (plural hornbooks)

A single page containing the alphabet, covered with a sheet of transparent horn, formerly used for teaching children to read.

(legal) A legal textbook that gives a basic overview of a particular area of law.

Source: Wiktionary

Horn"book`, n.

1. The first book for children, or that from which in former times they learned their letters and rudiments; -- so called because a sheet of horn covered the small, thin board of oak, or the slip of paper, on which the alphabet, digits, and often the Lord's Prayer, were written or printed; a primer. "He teaches boys the hornbook." Shak.

2. A book containing the rudiments of any science or branch of knowledge; a manual; a handbook.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition