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Epigraph
01
a quotation or phrase placed at the beginning of a book, chapter, or other written work, often to suggest a theme or context
What is an "epigraph"?
An epigraph is a short quotation or phrase that appears at the beginning of a book, chapter, or other literary work. It is used to set the tone, provide insight, or offer context for the content that follows. Epigraphs are often selected to reflect the themes or key ideas of the work and are usually attributed to another author or source, such as a poem, literary work, or historical figure.
Examples
The novel opens with an epigraph from T.S. Eliot.
She included a famous quote as the epigraph for her essay.
02
an inscription carved, engraved, or written on a surface, such as a monument, building, or plaque
Examples
The tombstone bears an epigraph commemorating the deceased.
An epigraph on the wall records the date of the building's construction.
