author

[aw-ther]

noun

1. a person who writes a novel, poem, essay, etc.; the composer of a literary work, as distinguished from a compiler, translator, editor, or copyist.

2. the literary production or productions of a writer.

   to find a passage in an author.

3. the maker of anything; creator; originator.

   the author of a new tax plan.

4. Computers.,  the writer of a software program, especially a hypertext or multimedia application.

verb (used with object)

1. to write; be the author of.

   He authored a history of the Civil War.

2. to originate; create a design for.

   She authored a new system for teaching chemistry.

author

/ ɔːˈθɔːrɪəl, ˈɔːθə /

noun

1. a person who composes a book, article, or other written work

2. a person who writes books as a profession; writer

3. the writings of such a person

   reviewing a postwar author

4. an originator or creator

   the author of this plan

verb

1. to write or originate

Other Word Forms

• authorial adjective
• authorless adjective
• multiauthored adjective
• proauthor adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of author¹

First recorded in 1250–1300; Middle English auct(h)or, from Latin auctor “founder, originator, writer,” equivalent to aug(ēre) “to increase” ( augment ) + -tor -tor; replacing Middle English auto(u)r, from Anglo-French; Old French autor, from Latin, as above

Word History and Origins

Origin of author¹

C14: from Old French autor, from Latin auctor author, from augēre to increase

Example Sentences

“I don’t know who authorized the chief of the French defense staff to make such statements, which are frightening and cause anxiety,” National Rally Vice President Sébastien Chenu told French TV.

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According to the authors, the results point to a significant weakness in current prevention practices because today's guidelines may overlook individuals who would benefit from earlier detection and protective treatment.

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The authors note the need for future studies to explore whether pairing GLP-1 therapies with adequate dietary choline can help maintain metabolic resilience and overall health.

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The authors note that the opinions, interpretations, conclusions and recommendations are their own and are not necessarily endorsed by the Department of Defense, the NIH, VA or other funders.

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At a higher level, the plan is the clearest manifestation to date of what its authors call an “all-of-society” approach to war.

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Related Words

• biographer 
• columnist 
• composer 
• creator 
• journalist 
• poet 
• producer 
• reporter 
• writer