Lettering vs. Inscription — What's the Difference?

Lettering is an umbrella term that covers the art of drawing letters, instead of simply writing them. Lettering is considered an art form, where each letter in a phrase or quote acts as an illustration.

A thing inscribed, as on a monument or in a book

The act, process, or art of forming letters.

The act or an instance of inscribing.

Letters inscribed, as on a sign.

A marking, such as the wording on a coin, medal, monument, or seal, that is inscribed.

Present participle of letter

A piece of material, such as a stone or metal tablet, that is inscribed.

Written text, especially when printed.

An enrollment or a registration of names.

The act or business of making, or marking with, letters, as by cutting or painting.

A short, signed message in a book or on a photograph given as a gift.

The letters made; as, the lettering of a sign.

The usually informal dedication of a book or an artistic work.

Letters inscribed (especially words engraved or carved) on something

The act of inscribing.

Text carved on a wall or plaque, such as a memorial or gravestone.

The text on a coin.

Words written in the front of a book as a dedication.

The act or process of inscribing.

That which is inscribed; something written or engraved; especially, a word or words written or engraved on a solid substance for preservation or public inspection; as, inscriptions on monuments, pillars, coins, medals, etc.

A line of division or intersection; as, the tendinous inscriptions, or intersections, of a muscle.

An address, consignment, or informal dedication, as of a book to a person, as a mark of respect or an invitation of patronage.

Letters inscribed (especially words engraved or carved) on something

A short message (as in a book or musical work or on a photograph) dedicating it to someone or something

The activity of inscribing (especially carving or engraving) letters or words