writing

noun

writ·​ing ˈrī-tiŋ 

1

: the act or process of one who writes: such as

a

: the act or art of forming visible letters or characters

specifically : handwriting sense 1

b

: the act or practice of literary or musical composition

2

: something written: such as

a

: letters or characters that serve as visible signs of ideas, words, or symbols

b

: a letter, note, or notice used to communicate or record

c

: a written composition

d

: inscription

3

: a style or form of composition

4

: the occupation of a writer

especially : the profession of authorship

see also:

writing on the wall

Examples of writing in a Sentence

Writing usually isn't a lucrative career, but it has been very fulfilling for me.

He teaches creative writing at the university.

Few people nowadays care about the art of letter writing.

The novel's plot is okay, but the writing is horrible.

I asked a friend to critique my writing.

Her essay was a wonderful piece of writing.

She has a unique writing style.

Much of the best Japanese writing has not been translated into English.

the writings of Benjamin Franklin

a book of selected writings on moral philosophy

Recent Examples on the Web

But what makes Dunham’s writing so singular (and has for years) is her ability to capture that which lacks closure or simplicity. —Fran Hoepfner, Vulture, 23 Apr. 2026

Any discrepancy between a settlement agreement and what's reflected on the credit report should be disputed in writing with both the creditor and the credit bureaus. —Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 23 Apr. 2026

By focusing on collaboration, autonomy, and long-form revision, Revise represents an effort to rethink how writing tools are designed and used. —Matthew Kayser, USA Today, 23 Apr. 2026

Your writing partner and best friend, Ike Barinholtz, was unable to appear in season one due to his role on The Studio. —Brian Davids, HollywoodReporter, 23 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing writing

• automatic writing
• commit (something) to paper/writing
• in writing
• picture writing
• see/read the writing/handwriting on the wall
• spirit writing
• sports writing
• the writing/handwriting is on the wall
• writing desk
• writing on the wall
• writing paper

Rhymes for writing

• biting
• blighting
• citing
• fighting
• lighting
• righting
• sighting
• siting
• slighting
• whiting
• alighting
• backbiting

Kids Definition

writing

noun

writ·​ing

ˈrīt-iŋ

1

: the act or process of one that writes: as

a

: the formation of letters to express words and ideas : handwriting sense 1

b

: the art or practice of literary or musical composition

2

: something (as a letter or book) that is written or printed

3

: a style or form of composition

4

: the occupation of a writer