Scribes: meaning, definitions and examples

Used generally to describe people in ancient times who were responsible for writing and recording documents. Also used metaphorically in modern times for professional writers or journalists.

• In ancient Egypt, scribes played a crucial role in the administration of the kingdom.
• Today's scribes are covering the breaking news with great expertise.

Refers to someone who performs office work such as maintaining records, handling correspondence, and other administrative tasks. Often used in a modern business or bureaucratic setting.

• The office clerk organized the files efficiently.
• She got a job as a clerk at the local bank.

Specifies someone who transcribes documents or manuscripts by hand. Often associated with historical contexts or artistic settings such as copying music or art.

• The copyist spent hours replicating the ancient manuscript.
• Before the advent of printers, copyists were essential in reproducing books.

Used to denote someone who writes documents professionally or makes copies, often with a formal or legal connotation. This word is more archaic and less commonly used in modern times.

• In Shakespeare's plays, a scrivener might appear to draft important legal documents.
• During the 18th century, scriveners were hired to write letters and contracts.

This word can be used to refer to people whose job or role is to write documents, often in historical or ancient contexts.

• In ancient Egypt, scribes were highly respected individuals.
• The scribes carefully copied the sacred texts.

This is the most general term used for the act of putting words on paper or another medium.

• He likes to write stories in his spare time.
• Please write your name at the top of the page.

It's most commonly used when referring to the act of reproducing a text or document exactly as the original.

• Please copy these notes for the meeting.
• She copied the entire book by hand.

Use this word when referring to the act of carving or writing something on a surface permanently, such as stone or metal.

• They decided to inscribe their names on the monument.
• The ancient tablets were inscribed with hieroglyphics.