What does written mean?
“Written” is the past participle of “write” and, as an adjective, means put into words on paper or another written medium. It can describe the form of a message or agreement, the fact that a work has been composed, or the record left by an action: a written account, a written contract, or a rule set down in writing. In everyday use, the contrast with “spoken” or “oral” often matters. A spoken apology may convey warmth and immediacy, while a written apology can provide a precise, permanent account; a documented agreement likewise tends to emphasize formal commitments. The word is common in British and American English and is neutral in most contexts, although its use can emphasize documentation, deliberation, or permanence. Although it looks like a simple inflection, “written” carries an important practical implication: language has been deliberately recorded rather than merely uttered.
Expressed, recorded, or composed in writing rather than spoken.
"The publisher asked the author to revise the written version of the opening chapter."
Often contrasts with “spoken” or “oral”; it can also indicate that something is official or formally documented.
The past participle of “write,” used particularly in passive and perfect constructions.
"The manuscript was written by hand."
It indicates either that writing has been completed or that something has been put into writing.
Long before ink met parchment, writing began with marks: “written” descends from a Germanic verb associated with scratching, marking, or scoring.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does written come from?
The word descends from Middle English “written,” the past participle of forms of “write” that developed from Old English “wrītan,” meaning to write, score, or draw. Its Proto-Germanic ancestor is generally connected with a Proto-Indo-European root associated with scratching or making marks. English relatives in this wider family include “rite” and “rind,” both reflecting the older association with marking or cutting.
Related word forms
How written is actually used
Common in formal and informal contexts, “written” can be used attributively or predicatively. Its contrast with “spoken” or “oral” is often important, and it can suggest that something is official, documented, or deliberately recorded.
Easily confused with written
A “writ” is a formal legal document or order, whereas “written” commonly describes anything expressed in writing.