HIEROGLYPH Meaning and
Definition
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A hieroglyph is a symbolic or pictorial representation that is part of an ancient Egyptian writing system commonly used in the Nile Valley during the Pharaonic period. It is a character or a sign that stands for a word, phrase, or even a sound. The term hieroglyph is derived from the Greek words "hieros" meaning sacred or divine, and "glyph" meaning carving or engraving.
Hieroglyphic writing typically consists of a combination of logograms (symbols representing complete words or phrases) and phonograms (symbols that represent specific sounds), providing a complex and versatile system for communication. The Egyptians used hieroglyphs primarily for monumental inscriptions on temples, tombs, and monuments. These intricate and detailed carvings were also found on papyrus rolls, pottery, and other everyday objects.
Each hieroglyph represented a concept, object, or abstract idea, and conveyed meaning through a combination of its form, position, and association with other hieroglyphs. The scripts often incorporated images of animals, plants, and human figures to create a visual language that reflected the ancient Egyptian's worldview and culture.
Hieroglyphs were deciphered in the 19th century through the groundbreaking work of scholars such as Jean-François Champollion. Their understanding of the hieroglyphic script opened up the ancient Egyptian civilization's rich history and literature to study and interpretation.
Today, the term hieroglyph is also used more broadly to refer to any system of writing that uses pictorial symbols or characters.
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A sacred character or symbol; the sculpture or picture-writing of anc. Egypt-generally used in the.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for HIEROGLYPH
Etymology of HIEROGLYPH
The word "hieroglyph" is derived from the Greek words "hieros" meaning "sacred" or "divine", and "glyphein" meaning "to carve" or "to inscribe". The term was first introduced in ancient Greece to describe the ancient Egyptian writing system, which consisted of pictorial symbols or characters commonly found on temples and tombs. The Greeks believed that these symbols were not just ordinary writing, but rather sacred or divine inscriptions. Thus, they coined the term "hieroglyph" to refer to this unique form of writing.
Similar spelling word for HIEROGLYPH
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