glyptics

[glip-tiks]

noun

(used with a singular verb) glyptography(def 2).

Origin of glyptics

First recorded in 1810–20; see origin at glyptic, -ics

glyptic

[glip-tik]

adjective

of or relating to carving or engraving on gems or the like.

noun

the act or process of producing glyptic ornaments.

Origin of glyptic

1810–20; < Greek glyptikós of engraving, of stone carving, equivalent to gly-pt(ós) carved (verbid of glýphein to engrave, hollow out) + -ikos -ic

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

British Dictionary definitions for glyptics

glyptics

noun

(functioning as singular) the art of engraving precious stones

glyptic

adjective

of or relating to engraving or carving, esp on precious stones

Word Origin for glyptic

C19: from French glyptique, from Greek gluptikos, from gluptos, from gluphein to carve

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