What does autograph mean?
An autograph is a person's own handwritten signature, most famously that of a celebrity, historical figure, or author, often collected and treasured as a memento. The term can also refer to a manuscript written entirely in the author's own hand, a meaning especially important in literary and historical scholarship, where an 'autograph manuscript' carries particular value and authenticity. As a verb, to autograph means to sign one's name on something — a book, photograph, or piece of memorabilia — typically at the request of a fan or admirer. The word derives from the Greek roots 'autos' (self) and 'graphein' (to write), literally meaning 'self-written'. Autographs hold cultural and sometimes considerable monetary value, with collectors' markets dedicated to signatures of athletes, musicians, presidents, and authors. Related words include the autograph book, a keepsake volume for collecting signatures, common among fans and schoolchildren alike.
A person's own signature or handwriting, especially that of a famous person, collected as a memento.
"He waited outside the theatre hoping to get the actor's autograph."
Often used attributively in phrases like 'autograph book' or 'autograph hunter'.
To sign one's name on something, especially for a fan or admirer.
"The band stayed after the show to autograph posters for their fans."
Standard plural, referring to multiple signatures or multiple handwritten manuscripts.
"Her collection of autographs includes letters from several Nobel laureates."
The word 'autograph' literally means 'self-written' in Greek — so every time you sign your own name, you're technically creating one.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of autograph
The word 'autograph' entered English in the early seventeenth century, borrowed from French 'autographe', which itself derives from Latin 'autographum'. Its roots lie in ancient Greek: 'autos' meaning 'self' combined with 'graphein' meaning 'to write' or 'draw'. It originally referred to a document written in someone's own hand before extending to mean simply a personal signature. The same Greek root 'graphein' gives us a whole family of writing-related words, including biography, calligraphy, and graphic.
Related word forms
How autograph is actually used
'Autograph' as a verb is somewhat more common in American English and often appears in contexts involving celebrities signing memorabilia. The noun carries a positive, admiring connotation — obtaining an autograph usually implies fandom or reverence for the signer.
Easily confused with autograph
A signature is any person's signed name used to authorize or identify documents, while an autograph specifically refers to a famous person's signature kept or sought as a memento.