Inscribe: meaning, definitions and examples

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inscribe

[ɪnˈskraɪb ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

on a surface

To write, print, carve, or engrave (words or letters) on or in a surface. To mark or decorate (an object or surface) with words or symbols.

Synonyms

carve, engrave, etch.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
inscribe	Typically used when writing or marking something in a formal or ceremonial manner, such as on a book, monument, or medal, often with a pen or stylus. The author inscribed a personal message to me in the front of the book. They inscribed his name on the gravestone.
engrave	Refers to cutting or etching text or a design onto a hard surface, such as metal, glass, or wood, often for purposes like personalization or ornamentation. The jeweler engraved their names on the inside of the wedding rings. She engraved a pattern on the silver bracelet.
etch	Used when marking something, typically metal or glass, by using acid or another corrosive substance. It can also be used metaphorically to describe something being imprinted in memory. The artist used acid to etch the design onto the glass. The horrific scene was etched in his mind forever.
carve	Used primarily for cutting or shaping a material like wood or stone, often creating a design, figure, or lettering. He carved a beautiful sculpture out of a block of wood. They carved their initials into the tree trunk.

Examples of usage

He inscribed his name on the trophy.
The monument was inscribed with a quote from the famous speech.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

on a list or record

To write or enter (a name or information) on a list or record. To enroll or register (someone) officially.

Synonyms

document, record, register.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
inscribe	Use 'inscribe' when you are carving or writing words onto a surface, usually something permanent like a monument, ring, or trophy. She inscribed their names on the wedding ring. The monument was inscribed with the names of the fallen soldiers.
record	Use 'record' when you are capturing information or data for future reference, often used in contexts like taking notes, making videos, or keeping a log. He recorded the meeting to ensure he didn't miss any details. The nurse recorded the patient's vital signs in the medical chart.
document	Use 'document' when you want to provide written or recorded information that gives evidence or information, often used in a legal, historical, or formal context. The scientist documented her findings in a research paper. They documented the construction process for the new building.
register	Use 'register' when you want to officially list or enroll names or information, often in an official or formal setting such as a school, event, or database. You need to register your vehicle at the DMV. She registered for the online course last Monday.

Examples of usage

She inscribed her children's names in the family tree.
The names of the winners will be inscribed in the record book.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

archaic

A historical record or document in which names or events are recorded. A dedication or brief note written in a book or other written work.

Synonyms

inscription, note, record.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
inscribe	When you want to write or etch words onto a surface for lasting visibility, often in metal, stone, or another durable material. They decided to inscribe their names on the monument. The ring was inscribed with a loving message.
inscription	When referring to the actual message or text that has been inscribed onto something. The ancient inscription on the tombstone was barely readable. The book contained a heartfelt inscription from the author.
record	When you need to formally capture or document information for future reference. The secretary will record the minutes of the meeting. He likes to record all his expenses in a ledger.
note	When you need to jot down brief, informal information or a quick reminder. She left a note on the fridge to buy milk. He wrote a note to remind himself of the meeting.

Examples of usage

The inscribe detailed the events of the battle in the ancient manuscript.
He found an old book with an inscribe from the previous owner.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'inscribere', which combines 'in-' (meaning 'into') and 'scribere' (meaning 'to write').
It has been used since the Middle Ages to describe writing on monuments and gravestones.

Historical Uses

In ancient times, inscriptions were often made on stone tablets and were used to record important events or laws.
The Rosetta Stone features inscriptions in three scripts, helping scholars decipher Egyptian hieroglyphs.

Cultural Significance

In many cultures, inscribing names on wedding rings symbolizes the eternal bond between partners.
Public monuments often have inscriptions dedicated to heroes, reflecting society's values and memories.

Modern Applications

Inscriptions are frequently used in personalized gifts, like engraved bracelets and plaques, to give them special meaning.
Digital inscribing, such as creating watermarks on images, helps protect intellectual property.

Psychology

Writing inscriptions can create a sense of belonging and connection, as it personalizes objects and experiences.
Psychologically, the act of inscribing can strengthen memories by visually anchoring important moments or messages.

Translations

Translations of the word "inscribe" in other languages:

🇵🇹 inscrever

🇮🇳 लिखना

🇩🇪 einschreiben

🇮🇩 mendaftarkan

🇺🇦 вписати

🇵🇱 zarejestrować

🇯🇵 記入する (きにゅうする)

🇫🇷 inscrire

🇪🇸 inscribir

🇹🇷 kaydetmek

🇰🇷 기입하다

🇸🇦 تسجيل

🇨🇿 zapsat

🇸🇰 zapísať

🇨🇳 登记 (dēngjì)

🇸🇮 vpisati

🇮🇸 skrá

🇰🇿 жазу

🇬🇪 ჩაწერა

🇦🇿 qeyd etmək

🇲🇽 inscribir

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,563, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

...
25560 hippie
25561 imago
25562 athwart
25563 inscribe
25564 equaling
25565 legibility
25566 bewitching
...