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Definition of authorship
authorship
/ˈɔː.θɚ.ʃɪp/
au · thor · ship
authorship Lexical Profile
CEFR
B2
Grade
8
Tier
2
Usage
Top 10k
Syllables
3
authorship Game Scores & Validity
Scrabble US
Scrabble UK
WWF
Wordle Guess
• noun
1
The state or fact of being the writer of a book, article, or document, or the creator of a work of art.
Example
"Historians have long debated the true authorship of several anonymous political pamphlets from the eighteenth century."
2
The occupation or practice of writing books or other literary works.
Example
"After retiring from teaching, she devoted her remaining years entirely to authorship."
3
The origin or source of an idea, plan, policy, or state of affairs.
Example
"Both diplomats claimed authorship of the peace treaty that ended the border dispute."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for authorship• Rhymes for authorship
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Word Origin & Etymology
Formed in the early 18th century from 'author' (ultimately from Latin 'auctor', meaning 'originator' or 'creator') plus the Old English suffix '-ship', denoting a state, office, or occupation.
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Authorship. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/authorship