authorship

noun

au·​thor·​ship ˈȯ-thər-ˌship 

1

: the profession of writing

2

: the source (such as the author) of a piece of writing, music, or art

3

: the state or act of writing, creating, or causing

Examples of authorship in a Sentence

His first attempt at authorship failed.

Recent Examples on the Web

Regardless of its true authorship, the letter has cast a long shadow. —Caroline Tien, SELF, 23 Feb. 2026

My professional background encompasses the authorship of policies, procedures, and operational plans that continue to influence the office’s direction today. —Charlotte Observer, 20 Feb. 2026

Yet while its capabilities may offer efficiency and easier access, Paul Wollenzien, founder of Rune Entertainment, believes that its misuse has raised serious concerns about authorship and the erosion of artistic integrity. —Daniel Fusch, USA Today, 19 Feb. 2026

What makes this gray area tricky is that authorship and AI assistance are interwoven, and programs allow for degrees of artistic outsourcing. —Kieran Press-Reynolds, Pitchfork, 28 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

author entry 1 + -ship

First Known Use

1710, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing authorship

• co-authorship

Rhymes for authorship

• battleship
• censorship
• chairmanship
• chieftainship
• comradeship
• consulship
• craftsmanship
• dealership
• draftsmanship
• fellowship
• fingertip
• internship

Kids Definition

authorship

noun

au·​thor·​ship ˈȯ-thər-ˌship 

1

: writing as an occupation

2

: the origin especially of a written work