transcription

noun

tran·​scrip·​tion tran(t)-ˈskrip-shən How to pronounce transcription (audio)
1
: an act, process, or instance of transcribing
2
: copy, transcript: such as
a
: an arrangement of a musical composition for some instrument or voice other than the original
b
: a recording (as on magnetic tape) made especially for use in radio broadcasting
3
: the process of constructing a messenger RNA molecule using a DNA molecule as a template with resulting transfer of genetic information to the messenger RNA compare translation sense 2, reverse transcription
transcriptional adjective
transcriptionally adverb

Examples of transcription in a Sentence

Transcription of the tapes took weeks.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This copy may not be in its final form, may be updated and may contain minor transcription errors. ABC News, 27 July 2025 Idaho is planning to revitalize its emergency response system with new technology that will connect 911 call centers, and allow dispatchers to geo-locate callers immediately and receive text messages, photos, videos and live call transcriptions. Shannon Tyler, Idaho Statesman, 21 July 2025 Examples of innovations include leveraging ambient transcription technology to enhance doctor-patient interactions. Peter High, Forbes.com, 16 July 2025 As a quality control mechanism, every card transcription was completed by three or more volunteers, completely separate from one another. Keith Matheny, Freep.com, 14 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for transcription

Word History

First Known Use

1598, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of transcription was in 1598

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Cite this Entry

“Transcription.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/transcription. Accessed 31 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

transcription

noun
tran·​scrip·​tion tran(t)s-ˈkrip-shən How to pronounce transcription (audio)
1
: an act, process, or instance of transcribing
2
3
: the process of forming a messenger RNA molecule using a DNA molecule as a guide compare translation sense 2

Medical Definition

transcription

noun
tran·​scrip·​tion tran(t)s-ˈkrip-shən How to pronounce transcription (audio)
: the process of constructing a messenger RNA molecule using a DNA molecule as a template with resulting transfer of genetic information to the messenger RNA compare reverse transcription, translation
transcriptional adjective
transcriptionally adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on transcription

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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