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ἐπιγράφω

epigráphō

G1924 verb

SILEX Entry

Definition

To write upon or inscribe onto a surface, often with the intent to mark, identify, or dedicate; the act of engraving, superimposing writing, or adding a title or heading to an object (such as a document, monument, or coin). By extension, in certain contexts, may refer metaphorically to fixing something in the mind or memory, or designating by written word.

Semantic Range

to inscribe upon a surface, to affix a label or title, to engrave, to write a superscription, to record a name on a document or list, to impress (metaphorically) upon the mind

Root / Etymology

From the preposition ἐπί ('on, upon') and the verb γράφω ('to write'), forming a compound meaning 'to write upon'.

Historical & Contextual Notes

In classical Greek, ἐπιγράφω primarily meant to inscribe or write upon an object, such as a monument, stele, or official document. In Hellenistic and Koine periods, it could refer both to literal inscriptions (on tombs, coins, or documents) and to the adding of superscriptions or titles. In the Septuagint, it is used for inscribing names or laws, emphasizing physical marking or legal recording. In the New Testament, the word often appears in contexts relating to written titles (e.g., the title affixed above Jesus on the cross, see Mark 15:26), legal charges, or the writing of names (e.g., names inscribed in heaven). English translations sometimes obscure the public or declarative function of ancient inscriptions by using generic translations like 'write'. Related terms: γραφή (writing, scripture), ἐπιγραφή (inscription, superscription). ἐπιγράφω can also be contrasted with ἀναγράφω (record, register formally), highlighting its focus on the physical act of writing onto a surface. Usage in contemporary sources outside biblical literature retains the core sense of visible, declarative inscription, rather than mere notation or recording.

Translation Consistency

primary "inscribe" 5 occurrences

epigráphō specifically means to write upon or engrave on a surface (add a superscription, label, or title). "Inscribe" is a natural, specific English verb that captures the physical act of writing/engraving and also works for the extended/metaphorical senses (fixing in the mind, recording a name). It is more precise than the broader "write."

✓ All renderings match approved senses

Original Strong's Gloss (1890)

from ἐπί and γράφω; to inscribe (physically or mentally):--inscription, write in (over, thereon).

Root Family

ἐπιγράφω (epigraphō) — to write upon, to inscribe, to engrave, to affix a title

Root γραφ- to write, to inscribe

Word Forms

4 distinct forms

SIDANCE Surface Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2 Occurrences
G1924-04 ἐπιγράψω epigrapso V FUT ACT IND 1P SG I will write I will inscribe upon I will inscribe upon 2
G1924-03 ἐπιγεγραμμένη epigegrammene V PRF PASS PTCP NOM F SG inscribed having been inscribed upon having been inscribed upon 1
G1924-02 ἐπιγεγραμμένα epigegrammena V PRF PASS PTCP ACC N PL inscribed having been inscribed upon having been inscribed upon 1
G1924-01 ἐπεγέγραπτο epegegrapto V PLPF PASS IND 3P SG was inscribed had been inscribed upon had been inscribed upon 1

Occurrences in Scripture

5 occurrences

SIDANCE Reference Word Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2
G1924-03 Mark 15:26 ἐπιγεγραμμένη epigegrammene V PRF PASS PTCP NOM F SG inscribed having been inscribed upon having been inscribed upon
G1924-01 Acts 17:23 ἐπεγέγραπτο epegegrapto V PLPF PASS IND 3P SG was inscribed had been inscribed upon had been inscribed upon
G1924-04 Hebrews 8:10 ἐπιγράψω epigrapso V FUT ACT IND 1P SG I will write I will inscribe upon I will inscribe upon
G1924-04 Hebrews 10:16 ἐπιγράψω epigrapso V FUT ACT IND 1P SG I will write I will inscribe upon I will inscribe upon
G1924-02 Revelation 21:12 ἐπιγεγραμμένα epigegrammena V PRF PASS PTCP ACC N PL inscribed having been inscribed upon having been inscribed upon
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