Ghostwriting: meaning, definitions and examples

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ghostwriting

 

[ ˈɡoʊstˌraɪtɪŋ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

writing profession

Ghostwriting is the practice of writing for someone else, typically a public figure or author, without being credited as the author. The ghostwriter composes written material that is officially credited to another person, allowing them to produce work they may not have the time or expertise to write themselves.

Synonyms

co-author, collaborative author, writer-for-hire.

Examples of usage

  • The author hired a ghostwriter to complete her autobiography.
  • Many celebrities use ghostwriters for their memoirs.
  • He works as a ghostwriter, creating content for various clients.

Translations

Translations of the word "ghostwriting" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ghostwriting

🇮🇳 भूत लेखन

🇩🇪 Ghostwriting

🇮🇩 penulisan hantu

🇺🇦 привидне письменство

🇵🇱 ghostwriting

🇯🇵 ゴーストライティング

🇫🇷 écriture fantôme

🇪🇸 escritura fantasma

🇹🇷 hayalet yazarlık

🇰🇷 유령 작가

🇸🇦 كتابة شبحية

🇨🇿 ghostwriting

🇸🇰 ghostwriting

🇨🇳 代写

🇸🇮 duhovno pisanje

🇮🇸 draugaskrif

🇰🇿 елес жазушылық

🇬🇪 ფანტომური წერა

🇦🇿 xəyali yazı

🇲🇽 escritura fantasma

Etymology

The term 'ghostwriting' is believed to have originated in the 20th century, combining 'ghost'—indicating something that is hidden or not acknowledged—and 'writing.' Historically, the concept of ghostwriting has existed for centuries, with notable examples of authors engaging assistants or anonymous writers to produce their works. Ghostwriters have been used in various fields, from literature to politics. Over time, this practice evolved and became more recognized, with the term 'ghostwriter' becoming common in publishing circles. As the publishing industry grew, so too did the demand for skilled writers who could articulate the thoughts and experiences of others, giving rise to a distinct profession dedicated to ghostwriting.