autobiography
UK: ˌɔː.tə.baɪˈɒɡ.rə.fi | US: ˌɑː.t̬oʊ.baɪˈɑː.ɡrə.fi
n. A written account of a person's life, composed by that person.
autobiography = auto<self> + bio<life> + graphy<writing>
- auto: From Greek autos (self), denoting self-reference.
- bio: From Greek bios (life), indicating the subject matter (life story).
- graphy: From Greek -graphia (writing or recording), marking the medium of expression.
Etymology Origin:
The word autobiography emerged in the late 18th century, combining Greek morphemes to describe a self-written life narrative. Auto- anchors the work to the author’s perspective, -bio- specifies the focus on life events, and -graphy reflects the act of documenting. This structured compounding mirrors the Enlightenment era’s emphasis on individualism and systematic record-keeping.
Her autobiography reveals untold struggles behind her public success.
The politician’s autobiography sparked controversy for its candid admissions.
Writing an autobiography requires deep self-reflection.
His autobiography became a bestseller within weeks of publication.
The memoir blurred the line between autobiography and fiction.