Writer

/ˈraɪtər/ noun

Definition

A writer is a person who creates written works such as stories, articles, books, or poems. Writers can work for fun or as a job.

Etymology

“Writer” is formed from “write” plus the suffix “-er,” which means “someone who does something.” As writing became more common and important, “writer” turned into a clear job title.

Kelly Says

A “writer” is simply “one who writes,” so the title is about the action, not a special membership card. If you regularly put words together with purpose, you already fit the original meaning.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

For centuries, ‘writer’ in many canons implicitly meant male authors, while women writers were marginalized, published under male pseudonyms, or categorized as ‘women’s literature.’ Their work was often deemed less serious or universal.

Inclusive Usage

Use “writer” as a fully gender‑neutral term and avoid assuming default male authorship; specify gender only when contextually relevant.

Empowerment Note

Explicitly include women and other marginalized genders when citing ‘great writers’ or literary traditions, acknowledging their historical exclusion from recognition and publishing opportunities.

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