SINCE 1828

An Encyclopædia Britannica Company

in writing

Definition of in writing

:in the form of a letter or a document

The agreement needs to be in writing in order for it to be valid.

Word by Word Definitions

writing play

: the act or process of one who writes: such as
: the act or art of forming visible letters or characters
: the act or practice of literary or musical composition

See the full definition of writing

Seen and Heard

What made you want to look up in writing? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

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WORD OF THE DAY

hew

play

to conform or adhere

Words at Play

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The Origins of 'Lobbyist'

From the front hallways to the back rooms

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The History of the Word 'Terrorism'

Noah Webster first entered the term in 1840

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'Regimen' vs. 'Regiment'

The rule of thumb for words about rules

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'Spox' May Go On The Record

From newsroom lingo to the mainstream

Ask the Editors

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Words of the Year: 1066

Or, Why Pig Meat is Called 'Pork' and Cow Meat is Called 'Beef'

How Often Is 'Biweekly'?

Don't get us started on 'bimonthly'

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Irregardless

It is in fact a real word (but that doesn't mean you should use it).

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Weird Plurals

One goose, two geese. One moose, two... moose. What's up with that?

Word Games

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The Exceptions Quiz III

Which of these things doesn't belong?

Take the quiz

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Forms of Government Quiz

Name that government! Or something like that.

Take the quiz

How Strong Is Your Vocabulary?

How Strong Is Your Vocabulary?

Test your vocabulary with our 10-question quiz!

Take the quiz

Word Winder's CrossWinder

Word Winder's CrossWinder

A game of winding words.

Play the game