autograph

American  

[aw-tuh-graf, -grahf] / ˈɔ təˌgræf, -ˌgrɑf /

noun

1. a person's own signature.

   He collects autographs of artists.

2. something written in a person's own hand, as a manuscript or letter.

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adjective

1. written by a person's own hand.

   an autograph letter.

2. containing autographs.

   an autograph album.

verb (used with object)

1. to write one's name on or in; sign.

   to autograph a book.

2. to write with one's own hand.

autograph British  

/ ˈɔːtəˌɡrɑːf, -ˌɡræf, ˌɔːtəˈɡræfɪk /

noun

1. 1. a handwritten signature, esp that of a famous person

   2. ( as modifier )

      an autograph album

2. a person's handwriting

3. 1. a book, document, etc, handwritten by its author; original manuscript; holograph

   2. ( as modifier )

      an autograph letter

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verb

1. to write one's signature on or in; sign

2. to write with one's own hand

Other Word Forms

• autographic adjective
• autographical adjective
• autographically adverb
• unautographed adjective

Etymology

Origin of autograph

1630–40; < Latin autographum, noun use of neuter of Latin autographus written with one's own hand < Greek autógraphos. See auto- ¹, -graph

Example Sentences

One of the reasons fraudulent dealers can get away with their crimes is because autograph verification is an unregulated process in the UK.

From BBC • Mar. 23, 2026

When he signed an autograph for a 14-year-old Sheeran in Norwich he made a lasting impression and last year, the Daily Telegraph wrote that Sir Elton "idolises" Vance.

From BBC • Mar. 13, 2026

In contrast, when I flew to New York in 2014 for a TV game show, three people at the airport asked for my autograph.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 28, 2025

To Cannon’s surprise, the reporters and lobbyists mobbed Reagan after the event was over to get his autograph.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 20, 2025

She remembered with affection the girls who had written in her autograph book.

From "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn" by Betty Smith

Related Words

• endorsement