picture writing

American  

noun

1. the art of recording events or expressing ideas by pictures, or pictorial symbols, as practiced by preliterate peoples.

2. pictorial symbols forming a record or communication.

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picture writing British  

noun

1. any writing system that uses pictographs

2. a system of artistic expression and communication using pictures or symbolic figures

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Etymology

Origin of picture writing

First recorded in 1735–45

Example Sentences

In it she writes, “Motion picture writing is as practical as plumbing, only the plums are bigger.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 11, 2023

He sent Teal a picture, writing in a message: “Please tell me this is the ring so I can finally get off this beach.”

From Seattle Times • Aug. 20, 2022

Times film critic Kenneth Turan made the case for why “Black Panther” should win best picture, writing, “‘Black Panther’ not only enriched America’s movie culture, but also opened eyes all over the world.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 24, 2019

Vera Drake snagged Oscar nominations for best picture, writing and lead actress.

From Time Magazine Archive

You can try to read the picture writing on the walls.

From "From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler" by E.L. Konigsburg