scripture

noun

scrip·​ture ˈskrip(t)-shər 

1

a(1)

Scripture : the books of the Bible

—often used in plural

(2)

often Scripture : a passage from the Bible

b

: a body of writings considered sacred or authoritative

2

: something written

… the primitive man's awe for any scripture …

—George Santayana

Synonyms of scripture

• Bible
• Book

Examples of scripture in a Sentence

someone who frequently quotes Scripture

Recent Examples on the Web

Faith is a driving factor for Baker, who reads devotional scripture each morning. —Graham Womack, Sacbee.com, 7 June 2026

Typically, a prayer, devotion, scripture passage or commemoration of an important event is printed on the reverse side. —Bridget Retzloff, The Conversation, 2 June 2026

American presidents have long used scripture as a rhetorical resource to frame important moments in the nation’s history. —NPR, 28 May 2026

Drew cited scripture in Matthew 5, from Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, to encourage people to let their lives shine. —Doug Ross, Chicago Tribune, 16 May 2026

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)

Kids Definition

scripture

noun

scrip·​ture ˈskrip-chər 

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