Hieroglyph
volume
British pronunciation/hˈa‍ɪ‍əɹəɡlˌɪf/
American pronunciation/ˌhaɪɹoʊˈɡɫɪf/

Definition & Meaning of "hieroglyph"

Hieroglyph
01

a system of writing used in ancient Egypt, consisting of pictorial symbols or characters that represent objects, ideas, or sounds, and were commonly used for inscriptions on temple walls, tombs, and other monumental structures

What are "hieroglyphs"?

Hieroglyphs are a system of writing used in ancient Egypt, combining logographic and alphabetic elements. Each symbol can represent a word, a sound, or a combination of both, allowing for rich and complex expressions. For example, the hieroglyph for "ankh" represents the word for "life" and is often depicted as a cross with a loop at the top. Hieroglyphs were primarily carved on monuments, tombs, and temple walls, serving religious and ceremonial purposes. This writing system is significant in understanding ancient Egyptian culture, history, and language, as it provides insights into their beliefs, practices, and daily life.

02

writing that resembles hieroglyphics (usually by being illegible)

hieroglyph

n

hieroglyphic

adj

hieroglyphic

adj

hieroglyphic

n

hieroglyphic

n
example
Example
Researchers studied Maya calendars and hieroglyphs for any prophecies about the world's ending.
He is studying Egyptian hieroglyphs for his history project.
Scholars deciphered the hieroglyphs on a fragmented papyrus, shedding light on religious practices of the ancient Egyptians.
The team of archaeologists managed to break the ancient hieroglyphs, revealing the hidden history.
The discovery of the Rosetta Stone was a breakthrough in Egyptology and archaeology, enabling the decipherment of ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs.
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