Epigraph

Pronunciation: /ˈɛpɪˌɡræf/

Definitions of epigraph

noun a quotation or inscription at the beginning of a book or chapter, usually suggesting its theme

Example Sentences

A1 The book had an epigraph at the beginning that set the tone for the story.

A2 I didn't understand the meaning of the epigraph in the novel until I finished reading it.

B1 The epigraph provided a clue to the mystery that would unfold in the pages of the book.

B2 As a literature student, I enjoy analyzing the significance of epigraphs in different works.

C1 The author chose a thought-provoking epigraph to introduce the complex themes of the novel.

C2 In her dissertation, she discussed the use of epigraphs as a literary device in postmodern literature.

Examples of epigraph in a Sentence

formal The epigraph at the beginning of the novel set the tone for the entire story.

informal I love how the epigraph in that book gave a hint about what was to come.

slang Did you see the epigraph in that new movie? It was so cool!

figurative The epigraph of life is often written in the moments of silence between chaos.

Grammatical Forms of epigraph

• past tense: epigraphed
• plural: epigraphs
• comparative: more epigraph
• superlative: most epigraph
• present tense: epigraph
• future tense: will epigraph
• perfect tense: have epigraphed
• continuous tense: is epigraphing
• singular: epigraph
• positive degree: epigraph
• infinitive: to epigraph
• gerund: epigraphing
• participle: epigraphed

Origin and Evolution of epigraph

First Known Use: 1601 year

Language of Origin: Greek

Story behind the word: The word 'epigraph' originated from the Greek word 'epigraphein', which means 'to write on'.

Evolution of the word: Originally used to refer to an inscription on a building or statue, the term 'epigraph' evolved to also describe a quotation at the beginning of a book or chapter that sets the tone or theme.