attribution

American  

[a-truh-byoo-shuhn] / ˌæ trəˈbyu ʃən /

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.

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Other Word Forms

• misattribution noun
• reattribution noun

Etymology

Origin of attribution

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

Example Sentences

However, Ulmen's lawyers have rejected her characterisation of the situation and say no "unilateral attribution of blame" has been made towards their client.

From BBC

The system will allow merchants to retain ownership of customer relationships and data, and receive ChatGPT referral attribution in their admin.

From The Wall Street Journal

In the climate science chapter, footnote 77 says “discussion of attribution research has been adapted, and, in some cases, excerpted from the authors’ prior publications on this topic.”

From The Wall Street Journal

In 2025 Germany recorded 320 sabotage attempts, though “clear attribution remains challenging because the perpetrators are rarely identified,” the report says.

From The Wall Street Journal

But he knows that, if a critic can’t draw enlightening connections, attribution is only a parlor game.

From The Wall Street Journal