Q:

What is the origin of the word "dead-tree"?

What is the origin of the word dead-tree? I know that it basically refers to the print edition of a book that is also available in electronic format but would like to understand of the etymology the word dead-tree. In particular why the combination of the terms dead and tree to refer to books?

A:

Paper is typically made from wood pulp, which is produced by grinding up dead trees.
It's really nothing more complicated than that.

