Palimpsest

usgb/ˈpælɪmpsest/
noun

A manuscript or piece of writing material on which the original writing has been effaced to make room for later writing.

Archaeologists discovered a palimpsest in the old monastery, originally a Greek document with a Latin text written over it.
Visual representation of "palimpsest" - A manuscript or piece of writing material on which the original writing has been effaced to make room for later writing.

Often appears as...

  • ancient palimpsest
  • discover a palimpsest

Usage tips

Formal

Academic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "palimpsest"
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Historical Layers

A palimpsest often contains layers of history, giving insights into different time periods.

Illustration for Historical Layers
Examining the palimpsest, we explored the medieval texts beneath the Renaissance writings.
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Academic Tone

Use 'palimpsest' in formal or academic discussions about history or manuscripts.

Illustration for Academic Tone
The scholar referred to the document as a palimpsest during her lecture on Byzantine scripts.
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Physical Alteration

'Palimpsest' implies physical changes, where original texts are scraped or washed off.

Illustration for Physical Alteration
The ancient palimpsest revealed its hidden text after careful restoration.
Visual representation of the word "Palimpsest"

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