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Autograph Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ–Š๏ธ
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autograph

[หˆษ”หtษ™ษกrษ‘หf ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

signed item

A signature, especially that of a famous person.

Synonyms

endorsement, inscription, signature.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
autograph

use when referring to a person's handwritten signature, especially when it is given as a memento or collectible from someone famous.

  • He waited in line for two hours to get the celebrity's autograph.
  • I have an autograph of my favorite baseball player on this baseball.
signature

use when referring to a person's name written by themself, usually on a document to indicate agreement, acceptance, or validation.

  • Please add your signature at the bottom of the contract.
  • The painting had the artist's signature in the lower right corner.
inscription

refers specifically to writing that is engraved, carved, or written as a formal dedication in a book or on a monument.

  • The ancient coin had a Latin inscription around its edge.
  • He found a lovely inscription inside the book: 'To my dearest friend.'
endorsement

typically used in a commercial or promotional context when a person, often a celebrity, publicly supports or agrees with a product, service, or idea.

  • The athlete's endorsement of the new sports drink significantly boosted its sales.
  • She received an endorsement from a famous actor for her new book.

Examples of usage

  • I got his autograph after the concert.
  • The boy collected autographs of famous athletes.
Context #2 | Verb

to sign

To write one's signature on something.

Synonyms

endorse, inscribe, sign.

Examples of usage

  • The author autographed copies of his book at the book signing event.
  • She asked him to autograph her poster.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • Celebrities often sign autographs at events, leading fans to consider them prized collectibles.
  • In the world of sports, famous athletes' autographs can significantly increase the value of memorabilia and trading cards.
  • Notably, some musicians and actors auction their autographs for charity, combining fan culture with philanthropy.

Psychology

  • Getting an autograph can create a memorable emotional connection between fans and their idols.
  • Fan interactions such as autograph signing can enhance feelings of self-worth and joy for individuals.
  • Research shows that possessing a signed item can enhance a fanโ€™s attachment to a celebrity or character.

History

  • Historically, autographs were used by famous figures like kings and queens to lend legitimacy to documents.
  • Famous autographs have played a role in historyโ€”Abraham Lincoln's signature on the Emancipation Proclamation is a notable example.
  • In the 18th century, collecting autographs became a popular hobby among the educated elite in Europe.

Art

  • Many artists also used their own names as a form of signature, which can be seen as a precursor to autographs.
  • Art collectors often seek signed pieces from artists, adding value and provenance to artworks.
  • Signs of artistry and authenticity in autographs can be studied through forensic signature analysis.

Origin of 'autograph'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'autograph' comes from the Greek words 'auto' meaning 'self' and 'graph' meaning 'to write'.
  • The first known use of the word dates back to the late 16th century, reflecting a growing interest in personal signatures.
  • Historically, autographs were considered valuable not just for the name, but for the individualโ€™s character and reputation.

The word 'autograph' originated from the Greek words 'autos' meaning 'self' and 'grapho' meaning 'write'. Initially, it referred to a person's own signature. Over time, it evolved to also mean the signature of a famous person or a collectible signed item.

See also: graph, grapheme, graphic, graphing, graphite, monograph, xylograph.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,254, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.