attribution

American  

[a-truh-byoo-shuhn] / ˌæ trəˈbyu ʃən /

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.

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Other Word Forms

• misattribution
  noun
• reattribution
  noun

Etymology

Origin of attribution

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

Explanation

"A wise man once said..." Ever wonder who said that famous quotation? Then you're curious about its attribution. An attribution identifies a source or cause of something — in this case, the person who first said the quote. Attribution often involves identifying the author or source of written material or a work of art. If you want to prove that painting you found in your basement is a van Gogh, you'd produce evidence to ensure proper attribution. The word can be used more generally to indicate the source of anything, whether it's a bombing, climate change, or success. For example, attribution of your success might be hard work and the support of family and friends.

Example Sentences

"Even when all suspicions point toward Iran or Iran-aligned groups, governments may avoid immediate public attribution because they want to preserve room for de-escalation and avoid being trapped into a military response," Bitar said.

From Barron's • May 18, 2026

“This attribution challenge has paralyzed the international community’s response,” Jason Hsu, a former Taiwan legislator now at the Hudson Institute, recently told a U.S. legislative commission in written testimony.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026

But ghost writing in a scientific review violates ethical guidelines for attribution.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 13, 2026

"We want to create a clear perimeter around ownership with consent and attribution the norm in an AI world".

From BBC • Jan. 15, 2026

On the day her class voted on the attribution of each of the thirty-five paintings, Ms. Hussey was oddly quiet.

From "Chasing Vermeer" by Blue Balliett