An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

1. Something inscribed; the act of inscribing.
   

   2. The entering of a name on or as if on a list.
      

   3. A historical or religious text carved on stone, brick, or other hard surface.
      

   4. A brief dedication, as of a book or a work of art.

See also: Verbal noun of → inscribe.