Pronunciation: [skɹˈɪvənəɹi] (IPA) 
Scrivenery is a rare word that refers to the art or profession of writing. The phonetic transcription of the word is /ˈskrɪv(ə)n(ə)ri/, with the stress on the second syllable. The spelling of the word includes the consonant cluster "scr," which is commonly used in English words such as "scratch" and "scream." The "ven" in "scrivenery" is spelled with a "v" instead of a "f" due to the Latin root word "scriba," which means "writer."
Scrivenery refers to the occupation or practice of a scrivener, who is a professional copyist or writer. Derived from the Middle English term "scrivein," which originated from Old French "escrivain," this term is primarily used to describe the work of individuals who engage in copying and writing documents by hand.
In the past, before the advent of widespread printing, scriveners played a crucial role in preserving and disseminating written information. They were highly skilled in their craft, using specialized techniques and tools such as quill pens, ink, and parchment. Scriveners were sought after for their ability to produce accurate and neatly written legal, religious, or literary texts.
Though the need for scriveners has diminished significantly with the advent of modern technology, the term scrivenery can still be used in a figurative sense. It refers to a realm or domain associated with writing or literary pursuits. It symbolizes the art, craft, and traditions of writing, carrying a sense of reverence for the written word and the processes involved in its creation.
Overall, scrivenery encapsulates the historical profession of scriveners while also representing a broader concept encompassing the vast array of writing-related activities and skills. It acts as a reminder of the importance of the written word and the craftsmanship associated with its creation.
The word "scrivenery" is derived from the Middle English term "scriven", which originally referred to a professional scribe or a professional writer of legal or official documents. The term "scriven" came into English from the Old French word "escrivain", which meant "a writer" or "a scribe". The Old French word ultimately traces its roots back to the Latin word "scriba", meaning "a clerk" or "a secretary". Thus, "scrivenery" evolved to signify the profession or skill of a scrivener or a scribe, and is used to refer to the art or practice of writing or transcribing documents.
