attribution

[ a-truh-byoo-shuhn ]

noun

1. the act of attributing; ascription.
2. something ascribed; an attribute.
3. Numismatics. a classification for a coin, based on its distinguishing features, as date, design, or metal.
4. Archaic. authority or function assigned, as to a ruler, legislative assembly, delegate, or the like.

Other Words From

• misat·tri·bution noun
• reat·tri·bution noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of attribution¹

First recorded in 1425–75; late Middle English, from Middle French, from Latin attribūtiōn-, stem of attribūtiō “assignment, an allotting”; attribute, -ion

Example Sentences

My favorite cognitive bias is called motive attribution asymmetry, where we see ourselves as being motivated by protective, caring motives, and we see the other side as being driven by selfishness and by hostility.

From Los Angeles Times

One other former team parent spoke to the reporter, not for attribution.

From Salon

The principal spoke not for attribution because he was not authorized to be interviewed.

From Los Angeles Times

It is going to put these little tiny links and attributions in its summaries.

From New York Times

Studies like theirs, within attribution science, use real-world weather observations and computer modeling to determine the likelihood of a particular happening before and after climate change, and whether global warming affected its intensity.

From Seattle Times