Definition

To write for someone else, usually without being credited as the author.

Example

Many authors choose to ghostwrite for celebrities who want to publish books.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I heard you might ghostwrite for that new author, is that true?

Yeah, it's a pretty exciting opportunity!

I've always wondered what it's like to ghostwrite someone else's story.

It's interesting, but also challenging to capture their voice.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To write for someone else, usually without being credited as the author.

Example

She was hired to ghostwrite the celebrity's autobiography.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you know that I sometimes ghostwrite for a few authors?

Really? That sounds like an interesting job!

Yeah, it's fun to help them shape their ideas into a book.

Root Explanation

Ghostwrite → It is formed from "ghost" (from Old English *gāst*, meaning spirit or soul) and "write" (from Old English *writan*, meaning to inscribe or mark). The term refers to writing for someone else, often in a way that the original author remains anonymous, as if a spirit is doing the writing.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'spirit' ('ghost') doing the 'writing' — that's why ghostwrite means to write for someone else, often without being credited.

Visually Confused Words