Scribe: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used in historical or formal contexts to describe someone who writes documents or records information by hand. It can also refer to someone who copies manuscripts.

• In ancient Egypt, the scribe was responsible for recording tax assessments
• The scribe copied the ancient texts with great precision

Refers to writing or carving words, symbols, or signs on a surface, usually in a more permanent or ceremonial way. Often used for dedications, memorials, or significant text.

• They decided to inscribe their names on the park bench as a symbol of their friendship
• The ancient tablet was inscribed with mysterious symbols

Used when discussing the act of cutting or carving text, designs, or patterns into a hard surface like metal, wood, or stone. Often used in artistic or memorial contexts.

• The jeweler will engrave your initials on the inside of the ring
• The artist engraved a beautiful design into the metal plate

Use this in historical or religious settings where someone manually copies documents or scriptures.

• The ancient scribe spent years copying the sacred texts by hand.
• Scribes in medieval times played a vital role in preserving knowledge.

Best used in artistic or literary contexts where someone duplicates manuscripts or artworks, often with an implication of meticulous effort.

• The copyist worked diligently to reproduce the artist's original painting.
• Medieval monasteries often employed copyists to duplicate important manuscripts.

Ideal for modern contexts involving the conversion of spoken words into written form, such as transcribing interviews, lectures, or speeches.

• The transcriber took down every word of the lecture.
• She worked as a transcriber for the court, ensuring all testimonies were accurately recorded.

Appropriate in modern, formal office environments where someone is responsible for administrative tasks and record-keeping.

• The clerk filed all the documents correctly.
• As a clerk, she handles all the paperwork for the legal department.