epigraphy

[ih-pig-ruh-fee]

noun

the study or science of epigraphs or inscriptions, especially of ancient inscriptions.
inscriptions collectively.

Origin of epigraphy

First recorded in 1850–55; epigraph + -y³

Related formse·pig·ra·phist, e·pig·ra·pher, noun

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018

Examples from the Web for epigraphy

Historical Examples of epigraphy

As authorities on ancient Indian epigraphy no others rank higher.
The Hindu-Arabic Numerals
David Eugene Smith
Beneath them beat an intense desire to know about epigraphy—all about it.
Mr. Achilles
Jennette Lee
The literature which deals with the science of epigraphy is very large.
The New Gresham Encyclopedia
Various
Sanskrit did not oust Javanese as the language of epigraphy, poetry and even religious literature.
Hinduism and Buddhism, An Historical Sketch, Vol. 3 (of 3)
Charles Eliot
The science of palaeography deals with the former, while epigraphy is concerned with the latter.
Illuminated Manuscripts in Classical and Mediaeval Times
J. Henry Middleton

British Dictionary definitions for epigraphy

epigraphy

noun

the study of ancient inscriptions
epigraphs collectively

Derived Formsepigraphist or epigrapher, noun

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012