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.

---

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”; attribute, -ion

Example Sentences

The claimants are aiming to use what is known as attribution science, whereby a company’s contribution to global warming is estimated using historical output.

From The Wall Street Journal

Regulation should focus on establishing clear rules for attribution, data use and ownership so that the rarest element in the creative economy—original human insight—continues to be rewarded.

From The Wall Street Journal

The hall said the revised attribution to Massys had led to a discussion "about the painting's artistic and spiritual importance".

From BBC

The attribution of fault for the murder made the kingdom’s de facto ruler an international pariah, even though the kingdom denied MBS’s involvement.

From The Wall Street Journal

Several impressive Chinese paintings stand out among the attributions.

From The Wall Street Journal