ascription

plural ascriptions

1. uncountableusuallyThe act, or an instance, of ascribing a quality, characteristic, quotation, artistic work, or other thing to someone or something.

   And was thy breath A pure and sweet ascription to His praise?

   1846, Lydia Sigourney, Voice of Flowers, The Winter Hyacinth, page 7

   1 more example

   Since antiquity, Jewish tradition has softened the image by interpreting the word [zonah] as "innkeeper," one who "provides food" (/zun/). There is no reason, however, to doubt the ascription of harlotry.

   2001, David L. Lieber, Jules Harlow, Etz Hayim: Torah and Commentary

2. uncountableusuallyhuman sciencesThe stratification of people according to inborn characteristics (such as race or sex) outside of their control.