hieroglyphs
|hi-e-ro-glyphs|
/ˈhaɪərəɡlɪfs/
(hieroglyph)
sacred carved symbol → picture-writing
Etymology
'hieroglyph' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'ἱερογλύφος (hieroglyphos)', where 'hieros' meant 'sacred' and 'glyphein' meant 'to carve'.
'hieroglyph' changed from Latin 'hieroglyphus' and Old French forms and eventually became the modern English word 'hieroglyph' through Middle English.
Initially, it meant 'sacred carved symbol', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a picture or symbol used in ancient writing'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a character or symbol used in an ancient writing system, especially the pictorial symbols of ancient Egyptian writing.
The archaeologists uncovered new hieroglyphs on the temple wall.
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Noun 2
something written or drawn that is difficult to read or understand; an enigmatic sign or inscription.
To most of the committee, the financial report looked like hieroglyphs.
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Last updated: 2025/09/24 20:14