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Autographed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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autographed

[ˈɔːtəˌɡræftɪd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

signature context

Autographed refers to an item, particularly a book, photograph, or sports memorabilia, that has been signed by a famous person. The autograph usually signifies authenticity and enhances the item’s value for collectors. Fans often seek autographed items as a way to own a piece of their favorite actor's, musician's, or athlete's legacy.

Synonyms

endorsed, inscribed, signed.

Examples of usage

  • I purchased an autographed baseball from the game.
  • The autographed book is a prized possession for any fan.
  • She displayed her collection of autographed photographs on the wall.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • Autographs became highly collectible in the 20th century, with fans seeking signatures from movie stars, music legends, and sports heroes.
  • Some auctions for rare autographed items have reached prices in the millions, showcasing their value to collectors.

Psychology

  • The desire to obtain an autograph stems from a human need for connection and belonging to a larger community.
  • Research suggests that having a famous person's signature can enhance feelings of self-worth among fans.

History

  • In the past, signatures, or autographs, were often used as a form of proof of identity and authorization in legal documents.
  • Historical figures like Abraham Lincoln and Albert Einstein have their autographs preserved in museums as valuable artifacts.

Science

  • Forensic scientists can analyze autographs for authenticity by examining ink composition and handwriting styles.
  • Studies show that machine-generated signatures often lack the personal touch that makes handwritten autographs more appealing.

Origin of 'autographed'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek 'auto' meaning 'self' and 'grapho' meaning 'to write'.
  • It first appeared in English in the mid-19th century, directly related to the increasing popularity of celebrity culture.

The word 'autographed' is derived from the Greek word 'autographos', which means 'to write oneself'. This term is a combination of 'auto-' meaning 'self', and 'graph' meaning 'to write'. The use of autographs dates back to ancient history when prominent figures would sign documents or letters. In the 18th century, the practice became popular among artists and authors, who began to sign their works as a form of personal branding. The appeal of autographs has continued to grow, particularly in the realms of sports and entertainment, where fans seek tangible connections to their idols.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,730, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.