Ascription

/əˈskrɪpʃən/ noun

Definition

The act of attributing something to someone or something, or a statement that attributes a quality or action to someone.

Etymology

From Latin 'ascriptio,' from 'ascribere' (to ascribe). The suffix '-tion' creates a noun from the verb. Originally referred to the act of registering or recording in writing.

Kelly Says

In medieval times, ascription was literally the act of writing someone's name into a record—it's why today when we ascribe thoughts to a writer, we're using language that echoes ancient documentation practices!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.