das Autogramm
autograph
The handwritten signature of a famous person, often collected by fans as a souvenir.
EXAMPLE
Nach dem Konzert hat sie sich ein Autogramm vom Sänger geholt.
After the concert, she got an autograph from the singer.
das Autogramm
autograph
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Meanings
das Autogramm
autograph manuscript
In manuscript studies, a manuscript or written document that was written by the author themself.
EXAMPLE
Das Museum stellt ein wertvolles Autogramm von Goethe aus.
The museum is displaying a valuable autograph manuscript by Goethe.
Usage tips
Word structure
The word 'Autogramm' (autograph) comes from Greek. 'Auto' means 'self' and 'gramm' means 'what is written'. So an 'Autogramm' is literally something 'self-written'.
EXAMPLE
Der berühmte Schauspieler gab den wartenden Fans geduldig Autogramme.
The famous actor patiently gave autographs to the waiting fans.
Typical verbs
In connection with autographs from celebrities, the verbs 'ein Autogramm bekommen/holen' (to get an autograph), 'ein Autogramm geben' (to give an autograph), or 'um ein Autogramm bitten' (to ask for an autograph) are often used.
EXAMPLE
Viele Kinder baten den Fußballspieler um ein Autogramm.
Many children asked the soccer player for an autograph.
Context clue
This meaning is technical and is used in academia or in museums. When historical figures such as poets or composers are being discussed, it usually means the original manuscript.
EXAMPLE
Im Archiv wird ein Autogramm von Albert Einstein aufbewahrt.
An autograph manuscript by Albert Einstein is kept in the archive.
Compare with
Autogramm vs Unterschrift
signature
Unterschrift is a written name that, for example, confirms a document. An Autogramm, by contrast, is the signature of a famous person, which fans usually collect as a souvenir. Use „Unterschrift“ for a contract, and „Autogramm“ for a star's keepsake.
Autogramm
Nach dem Konzert bat der Fan die Sängerin um ein Autogramm.
After the concert, the fan asked the singer for an autograph.
Unterschrift
Für den Vertrag brauchte die Kundin noch die Unterschrift des Verkäufers.
The customer still needed the seller's signature for the contract.
In real life
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