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

Derived 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

The appearance of consciousness in large language models is not achieved in a way that is sufficiently similar to us to warrant attribution of conscious states.

From Science Daily • Jun. 5, 2026

"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

However, Ulmen's lawyers have rejected her characterisation of the situation and say no "unilateral attribution of blame" has been made towards their client.

From BBC • Mar. 28, 2026

“And we’ll do it the right way: responsibly, with safeguards that protect artists’ work, ensure attribution, and respect copyright.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 7, 2026

Thanks in part to that wrong attribution, Ad Herennium was the most popular handbook right through to the Renaissance.

From "Words Like Loaded Pistols" by Sam Leith