Manuscript: meaning, definitions and examples
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manuscript
[ˈmanjʊˌskrɪpt ]
Definitions
ancient document
A manuscript is an ancient document written by hand before the invention of printing. Manuscripts are valuable historical artifacts that provide insight into the past.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| manuscript |
Used to describe handwritten texts, especially old or historical documents that have significant value or importance, often found in libraries or archives.
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| document |
Used in a more general sense to refer to any written or printed paper that provides information or evidence, such as legal papers, reports, forms, or letters.
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| script |
Can refer to the written text of a play, film, or television show, or the handwriting style used in the document. It may also refer to instructions for performing a task in programming or automation.
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| parchment |
Refers to a material made from animal skin used historically for writing before the advent of paper, often associated with old and important texts or certificates.
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Examples of usage
- Researchers discovered a medieval manuscript in the library archives.
- The manuscript contained important religious texts.
- The manuscript was written in Latin and beautifully illustrated.
unpublished work
A manuscript can also refer to an author's unpublished work, such as a book or novel that has not yet been printed. Authors often submit their manuscripts to publishers for consideration.
Synonyms
draft, work-in-progress.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| manuscript |
Use this term for a complete or nearly complete document, often in the context of academic papers, novels, or historical texts that are ready for submission or publication.
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| draft |
This word fits well when referring to an early or preliminary version of a text. It's less polished and often subject to significant changes and revisions.
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| work-in-progress |
This term is ideal for describing a project or piece of writing that is still being developed, refined, or completed. It often implies ongoing effort and adjustment.
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Examples of usage
- The author finished writing her manuscript and sent it to the publisher.
- The manuscript was rejected by multiple publishing houses.
- She kept her manuscript hidden in a drawer for years.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The term comes from Latin 'manus' meaning 'hand' and 'scriptus' which means 'written'.
- The use of the word dates back to the Medieval period when scribes painstakingly copied texts by hand.
Historical Significance
- Many ancient manuscripts, such as the Dead Sea Scrolls, provide vital insights into historical cultures and religions.
- Before the printing press was invented in the 15th century, all written works were manuscripts, making them rare and valuable.
- Some manuscripts were illuminated—decorated with gold and vibrant colors—making them beautiful works of art.
Literature
- Famous authors like Shakespeare and Chaucer had their manuscripts studied to understand their writing styles better.
- Manuscripts are essential in literary studies as they can reveal changes in an author’s thought process.
Preservation
- Libraries and universities maintain special collections of manuscripts, preserving historical texts for future generations.
- Digital technology now allows for the preservation and accessibility of manuscripts, making them available to a global audience.
Modern Use
- In the publishing world, a manuscript refers to the version of a book that an author submits to publishers for consideration.
- Writers often go through multiple drafts, refining their manuscripts before they get published.
Translations
Translations of the word "manuscript" in other languages:
🇵🇹 manuscrito
🇮🇳 पांडुलिपि
🇩🇪 Manuskript
🇮🇩 manuskrip
🇺🇦 рукопис
🇵🇱 rękopis
🇯🇵 原稿 (げんこう)
🇫🇷 manuscrit
🇪🇸 manuscrito
🇹🇷 el yazması
🇰🇷 원고 (原稿)
🇸🇦 مخطوطة
🇨🇿 rukopis
🇸🇰 rukopis
🇨🇳 手稿 (shǒugǎo)
🇸🇮 rokopis
🇮🇸 handrit
🇰🇿 қолжазба
🇬🇪 ხელნაწერი
🇦🇿 əlyazması
🇲🇽 manuscrito