What does autographically mean?
Autographically is an adverb meaning in the manner of an autograph, usually by means of a handwritten signature. It is used when a person signs a book, note, photograph, or other item personally, distinguishing the act from a printed reproduction, facsimile, or digital signature. In contemporary English, the word is uncommon and often carries a formal or ceremonious tone, but it remains useful when the manner of signing matters. The expression commonly modifies verbs such as signed and written or adjectives such as autographed. Its meaning is narrower than simply “by hand,” because it implies an autograph or personal signature rather than any handwritten activity. The word can also describe work produced through autographic reproduction, such as a mechanically reproduced facsimile of a signature. Its Greek-derived elements autos, meaning “self,” and graphein, meaning “to write,” make its history especially memorable.
adverbIn the manner of or by means of an autograph, especially a handwritten signature.
- By means of an autograph or personal handwritten signature; in the manner of an autograph.
"The author autographically signed each copy of the first edition."
"The author autographically signed each copy of the first edition."
"The engraver reproduced the celebrated signature autographically."
Autographically points to writing for oneself: its roots mean “self” and “to write.”
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does autographically come from?
Autographically was formed in English by adding the adverbial suffix -ally to autographic. Autographic in turn derives from autograph, which combines the Greek autos, “self,” with graphein, “to write.” The related noun autography names the practice or result of writing in one's own hand, while autograph refers to a person's signature or inscription.
How autographically is actually used
Uncommon and generally formal or ceremonious. It normally implies a personal autograph or signature rather than handwriting in general.