playwright
UK: ˈpleɪraɪt | US: ˈpleɪraɪt
n. a person who writes plays; a dramatist
playwright = play<drama> + wright<maker>
- play: From Old English plegian (to exercise, perform), evolving to mean a theatrical performance.
- wright: From Old English wyrhta (worker, maker), used in compound words like shipwright or wheelwright.
Etymology Origin:
The term playwright (later simplified to playwright) emerged in the early 17th century, combining play (theatrical work) and wright (craftsman). Unlike writer, wright emphasizes skilled construction, reflecting the view of playwriting as a craft akin to carpentry or shipbuilding. The spelling playwright (not playwrite) preserves the archaic wright root, distinguishing it from mere writing.
Shakespeare is the most famous playwright in English literature.
The playwright spent months refining the dialogue for the new production.
Aspiring playwrights often study classical drama to hone their skills.
The theater commissioned a local playwright to create an original piece.
Critics praised the playwright’s innovative use of nonlinear storytelling.