hieroglyph

noun

hi·​ero·​glyph ˈhī-(ə-)rə-ˌglif 

1

: a character used in a system of hieroglyphic writing

2

: something that resembles a hieroglyph

Examples of hieroglyph in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Simple in shape, being straight, these trumpets have remarkable embellishments depicting Egyptian gods and hieroglyphs. — Kara Rogers, Encyclopedia Britannica, 10 Sep. 2026

In addition to hieroglyph texts, the interior walls feature murals depicting portraits of seated and kneeling figures, and archaeological evidence of papermaking tools. — Leigh Anne Miller, ARTnews.com, 14 July 2026

Some examples took more direct cues—such as the collectible Egyptian Pattern bracelets and brooches similar to 1924 examples depicting hieroglyphs. — Jill Newman, Robb Report, 18 June 2026

Pieces of papyrus or stone, with hieroglyphs sometimes incomplete, were recreated as a precious trio of clips, each with Fragment in their name. — Lily Templeton, Footwear News, 9 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

French hiéroglyphe, from Middle French, back-formation from hieroglyphique

First Known Use

1598, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for hieroglyph

• petroglyph
• biff
• cliff
• diff
• glyph
• griff
• if
• riff
• schiff
• skiff
• sniff
• stiff

Kids Definition

hieroglyph

noun

hi·​ero·​glyph ˈhī-(ə-)rə-ˌglif 

: a character used in hieroglyphic writing