Definition & Meaning of "trade paperback"

What is a "trade paperback"?

A trade paperback is a type of book released in a softcover format after the initial hardcover edition has been published. It is typically available in bookstores and aimed at a general audience. Trade paperbacks are usually larger than mass-market paperbacks and often feature higher-quality paper and binding. They are introduced to reach a wider audience after the hardcover edition has had its initial run, providing a mid-range option between hardcover and mass-market paperback editions.