attribute

Pronunciation: AT-rih-byoot

noun

Difficulty: common

Definition of attribute

A quality, feature, or characteristic inherent to someone or something, often serving to define their nature or identity.

Origin of attribute

Language of origin: Latin

Root word: attribuere

Original meaning: to assign, to allot

How it evolved: Initially used to denote the act of assigning or imputing qualities, it later came to refer to the qualities themselves by the 17th century.

The word 'attribute' originates from Latin, entering English through Old French in the 15th century. It has evolved from meaning 'to assign' or 'to impute' to its current usage highlighting inherent qualities.

First known use: 15th century

How to Remember attribute

Think of 'attribute' as 'a tribute'—qualities or features that you would pay tribute to or recognize in someone or something.

Synonyms for attribute

Antonyms of attribute

attribute in a Sentence

  1. Empathy is often regarded as the most admirable attribute of a great leader, distinguishing them from their peers.
  2. The artist's ability to evoke deep emotion through minimalism is an attribute that has earned her widespread acclaim.
  3. In the context of machine learning, adaptability is a vital attribute that determines the efficacy of an algorithm.

attribute in Literature & Culture

The term 'attribute' is widely used in philosophy and literature to explore the defining traits of individuals or concepts, such as Aristotle's exploration of the attributes of virtue.

Usage Notes

When used as a verb, 'attribute' often takes the preposition 'to' (e.g., 'She attributed her success to hard work'). As a noun, it implies inherent qualities rather than external factors.

Why attribute Matters for GRE & SAT

This word is frequently tested on the GRE due to its versatility in academic and analytical contexts, often appearing in reading comprehension or text completion sections.

Word Family

attributable (adjective)
Capable of being assigned or credited to a particular source.
attribution (noun)
The act of ascribing qualities or characteristics to someone or something.
attribute (verb)
To regard something as being caused by or belonging to someone or something.

Did You Know?

  • The word 'attribute' shares roots with 'tribe,' emphasizing the idea of assigning or belonging to a group.
  • Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel frescoes are often celebrated for the divine attributes assigned to human figures, blending theology and art.
  • In video games, characters often have 'attributes' like strength, agility, or intelligence, which define their abilities.
  • aspect
  • abate — decrease in intensity; lessen
  • aberrant — deviating from what is normal or expected
  • aberration — A departure from what is normal or expected
  • abet — assist or encourage, usually in wrongdoing
  • abeyance — suspension; temporary suppression
  • abhor — detest or regard with deep hatred
  • abide — tolerate, follow, or accept
  • abject — most unfortunate or miserable

More Vocabulary Words Starting with A

  • abate — decrease in intensity; lessen
  • aberrant — deviating from what is normal or expected
  • aberration — A departure from what is normal or expected
  • abet — assist or encourage, usually in wrongdoing
  • abeyance — suspension; temporary suppression
  • abeyance — suspension; temporary suppression
  • abhor — detest or regard with deep hatred
  • abide — tolerate, follow, or accept
  • abide — tolerate, follow, or accept
  • abject — most unfortunate or miserable