attribution

[a-truh-byoo-shuhn]

noun

1. the act of attributing; ascription.

2. something ascribed; an attribute.

3. Numismatics.,  a classification for a coin, based on its distinguishing features, as date, design, or metal.

4. Archaic.,  authority or function assigned, as to a ruler, legislative assembly, delegate, or the like.

Other Word Forms

• misattribution noun
• reattribution noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of attribution¹

First recorded in 1425–75; late Middle English, from Middle French, from Latin attribūtiōn-, stem of attribūtiō “assignment, an allotting”; attribute, -ion

Example Sentences

“The Laboratory has been very transparent in regular updates to employees that some layoffs are expected in October, but the number in your post is vastly incorrect and lacks attribution,” the statement said.

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We were not allowed shortcuts, lazy phrases, vague sources and insufficient attribution.

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Climate change caused by humans made fire-prone conditions in Turkey, Greece and Cyprus about 10 times more likely, according to a rapid attribution study by World Weather Attribution group at Imperial College London.

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"The loss of an attribution is quite rare in the modern artworld making this a significant rediscovery for Dali scholars," said Ms Downie.

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It lays out what the group describes as "a legal blueprint for prosecuting these crimes, even when direct attribution to individual perpetrators is impossible".

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