manuscript

American  

[man-yuh-skript] / ˈmæn yəˌskrɪpt /

noun

1. the original text of an author's work, handwritten or now usually typed, that is submitted to a publisher.

2. any text not printed.

3. a book or document written before the invention of printing.

4. writing, as distinguished from print.

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adjective

1. handwritten or typed, not professionally printed.

manuscript British  

/ ˈmænjʊˌskrɪpt /

noun

1. a book or other document written by hand

2. the original handwritten or typed version of a book, article, etc, as submitted by an author for publication

3. 1. handwriting, as opposed to printing

   2. ( as modifier )

      a manuscript document

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Other Word Forms

• manuscriptal adjective

Etymology

Origin of manuscript

1590–1600; < Medieval Latin manūscrīptus written by hand, equivalent to Latin manū by hand (ablative of manus ) + scrīptus written; script

Example Sentences

Mr. Szetela notes that some agents demand that authors hire them before the agency tries to sell the manuscript.

From The Wall Street Journal

After a little while, I pick up Alex’s manuscript, hoping for a distraction.

From Literature

The show, which is deftly curated by Federico Varese and Jessica Douthwaite, brings together an array of personal possessions, alongside annotated manuscripts, field notes, family photographs, school reports, sketches and correspondence.

From The Wall Street Journal

Fifteen manuscripts from the museum’s collection are presented alongside four contemporary paintings by Harmonia Rosales to explore how one of the most foundational stories has evolved—and stayed the same—across the centuries.

From The Wall Street Journal

Guido’s hand appeared in manuscripts about music and would be lodged in musicians’ minds, giving them a clear map to navigate pitch.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• article
• document
• text