Autograph

Part of Speech

Noun, Verb

Pronunciation

/ˈɔːtəɡrɑːf/

Definitions

• As a noun: A person's signature, especially that of a famous person, written as a form of identification or to grant a personal touch to something, like an album, book, or photograph.
• As a verb: To sign one's name on something, typically for a fan or collector.
• Any handwritten document or manuscript, particularly one considered valuable or rare due to the author or creator.

Usage Examples

• She asked the actor for his autograph after the show.
• He collects autographs from famous historical figures.
• The book was signed with the author's autograph on the first page.

Etymology

The word "autograph" comes from the Greek words "auto-" meaning "self" and "grapho" meaning "to write." Therefore, an autograph is something that is written by the person themselves, especially their own signature.

Synonyms

• Signature
• Sign
• John Hancock
• Handwritten signature

Antonyms

• Forgery
• Copy
• Reproduction

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "autograph" is generally uniform across English-speaking regions, though there may be slight variations in stress. In the UK, the stress is typically on the first syllable, whereas in some American accents, the second syllable may be stressed slightly more. The pronunciation in other languages, such as Spanish and French, often follows the phonetic conventions of the respective language.

Historical Usage

Historically, autographs have been valued as unique personal signatures of notable individuals, particularly in the realms of literature, politics, and entertainment. Autographs were especially sought after in the 19th and 20th centuries, with collectors eager to acquire signatures from famous authors, musicians, and politicians. The tradition of collecting autographs continues today, with signed memorabilia often fetching high prices in auctions.

Cultural Nuances

In different cultures, the act of obtaining an autograph may hold varied meanings. For instance, in Western pop culture, autographs are often associated with celebrity worship, with fans collecting them as mementos of their admiration. In contrast, in some Eastern cultures, autographs are less focused on fame and more on respect for an individual’s achievements or status. In both contexts, the autograph is a form of personal connection, whether with a public figure or a private person of importance.

More Information

An autograph is often considered a symbolic connection between the signer and the person receiving the signature. It represents more than just a name; it is a token of an individual's time, effort, and sometimes, their identity. Autographs are frequently collected in the fields of entertainment, sports, politics, and literature. Some rare and historic autographs can be valuable, as they often represent a moment in history or culture. The practice of collecting autographs dates back centuries, and it continues to be a popular hobby, with enthusiasts trading, selling, and auctioning signed items.