Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

ascriptive

Adjective

/əˈskrɪp.tɪv/

Definition

Relating to the act of assigning or attributing a quality or characteristic to someone or something.

Examples

The ascriptive nature of the class system often limits social mobility.
In many cultures, ascriptive identities play a significant role in determining social roles.
Her ascriptive title was based on her family’s lineage, rather than her personal accomplishments.

Meaning

Ascriptive refers to the process of ascribing certain traits or statuses to individuals based on their membership in particular groups, often without regard to their individual qualities or achievements.