original manuscript

Definitions

The first version of a literary or musical work as written by the author, before any editing or publication.

The primary source document from which copies or printed editions are derived.

Examples

The museum curator carefully handled the original manuscript to ensure it remained preserved for future generations.

Scholars traveled across the globe to examine the original manuscript and verify the author's handwritten notes.

After years of searching, the lost original manuscript was finally discovered in a dusty attic in Italy.

Synonyms

autograph holograph first draft source document primary text initial version handwritten copy

Antonyms

copy duplicate facsimile reprint transcript printed version derivative work