Penman: meaning, definitions and examples

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penman

 

[ ˈpɛnmən ]

Context #1

professional

A person who is skilled in the art of writing, especially in calligraphy or penmanship.

Synonyms

calligrapher, scribe, writer

Examples of usage

  • The penman created beautiful handwritten invitations for the wedding.
  • She hired a professional penman to address the envelopes for her business event.
Context #2

historical

A scribe or copyist, especially in medieval times.

Synonyms

amanuensis, copyist, scrivener

Examples of usage

  • The penman meticulously copied ancient manuscripts for the monastery.
  • In the Middle Ages, penmen were responsible for transcribing important documents.

Translations

Translations of the word "penman" in other languages:

🇵🇹 escritor

🇮🇳 लेखक

🇩🇪 Schreiber

🇮🇩 penulis

🇺🇦 письменник

🇵🇱 pisarz

🇯🇵 作家 (さっか)

🇫🇷 écrivain

🇪🇸 escritor

🇹🇷 yazar

🇰🇷 작가 (jakga)

🇸🇦 كاتب

🇨🇿 spisovatel

🇸🇰 spisovateľ

🇨🇳 作家 (zuòjiā)

🇸🇮 pisatelj

🇮🇸 rithöfundur

🇰🇿 жазушы

🇬🇪 მწერალი

🇦🇿 yazıçı

🇲🇽 escritor

Word origin

The word 'penman' originated in the late 16th century, combining 'pen' and 'man'. It initially referred to a scribe or copyist, often associated with the art of calligraphy. Over time, the term expanded to include skilled writers and calligraphers. The role of a penman has evolved throughout history, from medieval copyists to modern calligraphers and writers.

See also: pen, penal, penance, penholder, penmanship, penning, pennon, pens.