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Ghostwrite: meaning, definitions and examples

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ghostwrite

 

[ ɡoʊstˌraɪt ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

writing process

To ghostwrite means to write for someone else without taking credit for the work. Usually, the ghostwriter is hired to produce written content in the voice of another person, such as a celebrity or expert. This practice is common in the publishing industry, where individuals seek to publish books, articles, or speeches that reflect their ideas but may not have the time or expertise to write themselves. Ghostwriting allows these individuals to share their stories and insights professionally.

Synonyms

co-write, collaborate, draft, pen

Examples of usage

  • The author hired a professional to ghostwrite his memoir.
  • She decided to ghostwrite a book for her famous client.
  • Ghostwriting is a common practice in the literary world.
  • He earned a living by ghostwriting articles for various publications.

Translations

Translations of the word "ghostwrite" in other languages:

🇵🇹 escrever em nome de outra pessoa

🇮🇳 भूत लिखना

🇩🇪 Geisterschreiben

🇮🇩 menulis hantu

🇺🇦 привид писати

🇵🇱 ghostwriting

🇯🇵 ゴーストライティング

🇫🇷 écriture fantôme

🇪🇸 escritura fantasma

🇹🇷 hayalet yazarlık

🇰🇷 유령 작가

🇸🇦 كتابة شبح

🇨🇿 ghostwriting

🇸🇰 ghostwriting

🇨🇳 代笔

🇸🇮 duhovno pisanje

🇮🇸 draugaskrift

🇰🇿 елес жазу

🇬🇪 მოჩვენებითი წერა

🇦🇿 ruh yazma

🇲🇽 escritura fantasma

Etymology

The term 'ghostwrite' emerged in the late 20th century, deriving from the combination of the word 'ghost' and 'write.' The word 'ghost' has long been used to refer to something that is not visible, or a presence that is felt but not represented. In the context of writing, it conveys the idea of an unseen author creating a work for another person. The practice of ghostwriting itself, however, has existed for centuries, with notable authors and poets often employing ghostwriters to help craft their public works. The relationship between the ghostwriter and the credited author can vary widely, ranging from a pure collaborative effort to the ghostwriter working independently to produce content that will be attributed to another individual. As the fields of literature and journalism have evolved, so too has the role of the ghostwriter in helping articulate thoughts and experiences that may otherwise remain unexpressed.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #42,870, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.