Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
hieroglyph
noun
/ˈhaɪəroʊˌɡlɪf/
Definition
A character used in a system of writing, particularly in ancient Egypt, that uses picture-like symbols to represent words or sounds.
Examples
- The Rosetta Stone features several hieroglyphs that helped decode this ancient language.
- Many ancient Egyptian tombs are adorned with hieroglyphs that tell the stories of the deceased.
Meaning
Hieroglyphs were commonly used by the ancient Egyptians in their writing system for religious texts, inscriptions on monuments, and decorative art.
Synonyms
- symbol
- glyph
- pictograph
