Verfasster

Verfasster is not a standard German term for a person who writes. In contemporary usage, the customary noun for an author or writer is Verfasser (masculine) or Verfasserin (feminine). The form Verfasster is generally considered archaic, regional, or the result of a misspelling or misformation.

Etymology and meaning. Verfasster would be derived from the verb verfassen (to compose, to write) with the common agent-noun suffix -er. However, the expected agent noun in modern German is Verfasser, not Verfasster. The participle form verfasst means “written” and can function as an adjective or part of a passive construction, but it does not yield a standard noun Verfasster.

Usage. In present-day standard German, Verfasster is rarely if ever correct as a noun meaning “author.” If encountered, it is more likely a historical, regional, or mistaken form. When the intention is to refer to someone who writes or drafts documents, preferred terms are Verfasser/Verfasserin or, in some contexts, Schriftsteller or Autor. If the text aims to describe a document rather than its author, verfasst (written) or verfasstes Dokument would be appropriate.

Related terms. Verfasser, Verfassen, Verfasst, Autor, Schriftsteller.

See also. Verfasser (author); Verfassen (to compose); Verfasst (written); Autor (author).

Notes. If you encounter Verfasster, consider whether the author intended Verfasser, or whether the word is meant as a participle-adjective such as “verfasstes Dokument.” In most modern contexts, Verfasster should be substituted to maintain standard usage.