Hieroglyphic

usgb/ˌhaɪərəˈɡlɪfɪk/
noun

A picture symbol used in ancient Egyptian writing system.

The Rosetta Stone helped scholars understand Egyptian hieroglyphics.
Visual representation of "hieroglyphic" - A picture symbol used in ancient Egyptian writing system.

Often appears as...

  • egyptian hieroglyphic
  • hieroglyphic writing

Usage tips

Academic

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "hieroglyphic"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Ancient Origin

Understand that hieroglyphic refers specifically to ancient Egyptian symbols, not all ancient scripts.

Illustration for Ancient Origin
Mayan glyphs are not called hieroglyphics because the term is Egyptian-specific.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Image-Based

Hieroglyphics often represent objects and ideas, similar to an elaborate picture code.

Illustration for Image-Based
Hieroglyphics include images of animals, which could represent sounds or concepts.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Not Alphabetic

Remember that hieroglyphics are not a simple alphabet; each symbol can have multiple meanings.

Illustration for Not Alphabetic
A single hieroglyphic may represent a sound, word, or even a sentence.
Word comparison image

Compare with

characteristicdescriptiveemblematicfigurativeiconrepresentativesymbology
Look up Compare with
Visual representation of the word "Hieroglyphic"

Never forget "Hieroglyphic"

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google PlayGet it from MicrosoftGet it on AppGallery
Chrome

WordUp Chrome Extension

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.

Get Chrome Extension
Back to top