writing

noun

writ·​ing ˈrī-tiŋ 

1

: the act or process of one who writes: such as

a

: the act or art of forming visible letters or characters

specifically : handwriting sense 1

b

: the act or practice of literary or musical composition

2

: something written: such as

a

: letters or characters that serve as visible signs of ideas, words, or symbols

b

: a letter, note, or notice used to communicate or record

c

: a written composition

d

: inscription

3

: a style or form of composition

4

: the occupation of a writer

especially : the profession of authorship

Phrases

writing on the wall

: an omen or sign of one's unpleasant fate

No one told him he was going to be fired, but he could see the writing on the wall. [=he could see that he was going to be fired soon]

Examples of writing in a Sentence

Writing usually isn't a lucrative career, but it has been very fulfilling for me.

He teaches creative writing at the university.

Few people nowadays care about the art of letter writing.

The novel's plot is okay, but the writing is horrible.

I asked a friend to critique my writing.

Her essay was a wonderful piece of writing.

She has a unique writing style.

Much of the best Japanese writing has not been translated into English.

the writings of Benjamin Franklin

a book of selected writings on moral philosophy

Recent Examples on the Web

The aloneness in Gallant’s writing is often not so much stated as implied. —Vivian Gornick, The Atlantic, 3 May 2025

The obelisk is covered in hieroglyphics—the ancient Egyptians’ pictorial writing system—and engraved with both names that Ramses used as king. —Sonja Anderson, Smithsonian Magazine, 2 May 2025

While Reynolds will still appear in front of the camera, the project is all part of a shift in recent years to producing and writing. —Pamela McClintock, HollywoodReporter, 2 May 2025

That’s where an editor—like any editor, in any writing situation—can help wedding speakers find their voice and where, needed, provide a boost of confidence. —Jon Posen, Vogue, 2 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing writing

• automatic writing
• commit (something) to paper/writing
• in writing
• picture writing
• see/read the writing/handwriting on the wall
• spirit writing
• sports writing
• the writing/handwriting is on the wall
• writing desk
• writing paper

Rhymes for writing

• biting
• blighting
• citing
• fighting
• lighting
• righting
• sighting
• siting
• slighting
• whiting
• alighting
• backbiting

Kids Definition

writing

noun

writ·​ing

ˈrīt-iŋ

1

: the act or process of one that writes: as

a

: the formation of letters to express words and ideas : handwriting sense 1

b

: the art or practice of literary or musical composition

2

: something (as a letter or book) that is written or printed

3

: a style or form of composition

4

: the occupation of a writer