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

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

From Los Angeles Times

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.

From BBC

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

From BBC

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

From BBC

The figures are cited with attribution, by UN agencies and widely in the media.

From BBC