hieroglyphics
Britishnoun
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a form of writing, esp as used in ancient Egypt, in which pictures or symbols are used to represent objects, concepts, or sounds
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difficult or undecipherable writing
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Present-day writing that is hard to decipher or understand is sometimes jokingly called “hieroglyphics.”
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The back of the schist slab is covered in minute, crisply rendered hieroglyphics that offer healing spells.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 30, 2026
Much like the Rosetta Stone helped scientists interpret ancient hieroglyphics, V1298 Tau provides a key reference for understanding how the galaxy's most common planets take shape.
From Science Daily ● Jan. 31, 2026
The Rosetta Stone, found in 1799, provided the key to deciphering hieroglyphics; it was discovered by the French army and was seized by the British as war booty.
From BBC ● Oct. 31, 2025
A golden vent rests at its top, the figures on its grille appearing like alien hieroglyphics.
From Los Angeles Times ● Dec. 12, 2024
He felt a wave of relief, quickly followed by alarm—as if he’d finally succeeded in translating hieroglyphics only to discover he’d translated a curse.
From "The Mysterious Benedict Society" by Trenton Lee Stewart
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