epigraph

American  

[ep-i-graf, -grahf] / ˈɛp ɪˌgræf, -ˌgrɑf /

noun

1. an inscription, especially on a building, statue, or the like.

2. an apposite quotation at the beginning of a book, chapter, etc.

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epigraph British  

/ ˌɛpɪˈɡræfɪk, ˈɛpɪˌɡrɑːf, -ˌɡræf /

noun

1. a quotation at the beginning of a book, chapter, etc, suggesting its theme

2. an inscription on a monument or building

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Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• epigraphically
  adverb
• epigraphic
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of epigraph

First recorded in 1615–25, epigraph is from the Greek word epigraphḗ inscription. See epi-, -graph

Explanation

An epigraph is an engraved inscription on a building or statue, or a quotation at the beginning of a piece of writing. If you look on the U.S. government minted coins in your pocket, you'll see the epigraph "In God We Trust." Epigraph comes from the Greek roots epi- ("on") and graphein ("write"), a root you'll recognize from autograph, graphite, graphic novel, and lots of other familiar words that have to do with writing or drawing.

Related Words

• elegy
• eulogy