epigraphical
|ep-i-graph-i-cal|
/ˌɛpɪˈɡræfɪkəl/
relating to inscriptions
Etymology
'epigraphical' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'epigraphē', where 'epi-' meant 'upon' and 'graphein' meant 'to write'.
'epigraphical' changed from Late Latin/Medieval Latin 'epigraphicus' (and related French/Latin forms) and from the noun 'epigraph' into the modern English adjective 'epigraphical'.
Initially it referred to the inscription itself (an 'inscribed writing'), but over time it evolved into the adjective meaning 'relating to inscriptions or the study of inscriptions'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
relating to epigraphy or inscriptions; pertaining to inscriptions on monuments, buildings, or artifacts, or to the scholarly study of such inscriptions.
The archaeologist published an epigraphical study of the Roman milestones.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/10/16 12:32