What does epigraph mean?
An epigraph is a short quotation or inscription placed at the beginning of a book, chapter, poem, or other work to suggest its theme or set its tone. Writers often choose epigraphs from literature, scripture, philosophy, or even popular songs, using them as a kind of overture to what follows. A second, older sense refers more broadly to any inscription, especially one carved on a monument, coin, or building — the sense from which the scholarly field of epigraphy takes its name. The word comes from the Greek epigraphein, meaning 'to write on', combining epi ('upon') with graphein ('to write'). Epigraph carries a learned, slightly formal register; it appears most often in literary criticism, publishing, and academic writing. Because it sounds similar to both epigram (a witty remark) and epitaph (a memorial inscription), careful writers take care to keep the three distinct. Recognising an epigraph when reading helps illuminate an author's intentions before a single page begins.
A short quotation or inscription placed at the beginning of a book, chapter, or section to suggest its theme.
"The novel opens with an epigraph drawn from Ecclesiastes."
This is the dominant sense in modern usage, especially in publishing and literary criticism.
An inscription on a monument, building, or other object.
"Archaeologists recorded every epigraph on the temple walls."
This older sense underlies the related field of epigraphy, the study of inscriptions.
Standard plural; also spelled epigraphs in all major varieties of English.
"Her essays are prefaced by epigraphs from a range of thinkers."
The word epigraph literally means 'to write upon' in Greek — the same root that gives us graphic and photograph.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of epigraph
Epigraph derives from the Greek verb epigraphein, meaning 'to write upon' or 'to inscribe', formed from epi ('upon') and graphein ('to write'). It entered English in the early 17th century, initially referring to inscriptions on monuments and later extending to quotations at the head of literary works. It shares this Greek root with cognates such as epigram, graphic, and photograph.
Related word forms
How epigraph is actually used
Epigraph is a formal word used chiefly in literary and academic contexts. In publishing it refers specifically to front-matter quotations; in archaeology and classics, the related term 'epigraphy' covers the study of inscriptions generally.
Easily confused with epigraph
An epigram is a brief witty or pointed saying, while an epigraph is a quotation or inscription placed at the start of a work or carved on a monument.
An epitaph is an inscription commemorating a dead person, typically on a tombstone, whereas an epigraph introduces a literary work.