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

Join the concerts to begin Advent with uplifting music and scriptures, celebrating the coming birth of Jesus. —Ut Community Press, San Diego Union-Tribune, 2 Dec. 2025

One tradition Scott has passed down to her girls is reading scripture like Luke 2, which chronicles the birth of Jesus. —Bryan West, USA Today, 1 Dec. 2025

For decades, his annual shareholder letters have been scripture for investors—a mix of folksy wisdom, financial acuity, and candor. —Dave Smith, Fortune, 27 Nov. 2025

Spanish translations of scripture readings were printed in the program, and the choir sang in Spanish. —Sophie Carson, jsonline.com, 26 Nov. 2025

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