Subscription

/səbˈskrɪp.ʃən/ noun

Definition

A subscription is an arrangement where you pay regularly to receive a service or product, such as a magazine, app, or streaming service.

Etymology

From Latin 'subscribere' meaning 'to write underneath, sign one’s name', from 'sub' (under) + 'scribere' (to write). It originally meant signing your name to support or agree to something, often with payment.

Kelly Says

Originally, to subscribe meant to literally sign under a document; now we 'subscribe' with a click (and our credit card). Subscriptions quietly flip ownership: you often never own the thing—you just rent access to it.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

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