scripture

noun

scrip·​ture ˈskrip(t)-shər How to pronounce scripture (audio)
1
a(1)
capitalized : the books of the Bible
often used in plural
(2)
often capitalized : a passage from the Bible
b
: a body of writings considered sacred or authoritative
2
: something written
the primitive man's awe for any scriptureGeorge Santayana

Examples of scripture in a Sentence

someone who frequently quotes Scripture
Recent Examples on the Web Here’s What to Know For supporters of the temple, their primary justification is a claim that many historians agree has no evidence: that the Masjid was built atop the birthplace of Lord Ram, a chief figure in Hindu scripture. Siddhant Adlakha, TIME, 5 Apr. 2024 The connections between our books affirmed for me the love inherent in scripture. Hazlitt, 3 Apr. 2024 When Pastor Frank Wulf thinks about his congregation being unable to worship in their home of 100 years, he is reminded of the Old Testament scripture of the Israelites in exile. Noah Goldberg, Los Angeles Times, 1 Mar. 2024 George read scripture and Rosemary sang a romantic song for the newlyweds. Nicole Briese, Peoplemag, 12 Mar. 2024 The interior renovation, which kicked off In April 2023 is nearing the final phases, and on Jan. 7 everyone was invited inside the church to sign their names and write messages, scripture verses and prayers on the concrete sub-floor before the new floors are installed. Melissa Whatley, Baltimore Sun, 22 Jan. 2024 As a devout Christian, the actor is also sharing scriptures that can help those on similar journeys find peace. Vanessa Etienne, Peoplemag, 26 Mar. 2024 Even major scriptures from various religions mention creation of the sun and other celestial entities. Marshall Shepherd, Forbes, 2 Mar. 2024 Several biographers have noted that while on tour, Marley would often withdraw to a secluded spot on his bus to ponder scripture. John Blake, CNN, 3 Mar. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'scripture.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Late Latin scriptura, from Latin, act or product of writing, from scriptus

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a(1)

Time Traveler
The first known use of scripture was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near scripture

Cite this Entry

“Scripture.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/scripture. Accessed 25 Apr. 2024.

Kids Definition

scripture

noun
scrip·​ture ˈskrip-chər How to pronounce scripture (audio)
1
a
capitalized : the books of the Old and New Testaments or of either of them : bible
often used in plural
b
often capitalized : a portion of writing from the Bible
2
: the sacred writings of a religion
Etymology

Middle English scripture, Scripture "the books of the Bible," from Latin scriptura (same meaning), from earlier scriptura "the act or product of writing," from scriptus, past participle of scribere "to write" — related to scribe

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