hieroglyphics

/ ˌhaɪərəˈɡlɪfɪks /

noun

1. a form of writing, esp as used in ancient Egypt, in which pictures or symbols are used to represent objects, concepts, or sounds
2. difficult or undecipherable writing

hieroglyphics

1. A system of writing with pictures that represent words or sounds. The ancient Egyptians wrote with hieroglyphics. ( See Rosetta stone .)

Notes

Present-day writing that is hard to decipher or understand is sometimes jokingly called “hieroglyphics.”

Example Sentences

In his short but intense career, Haring’s pulsating figures became an inextricable part of New York City life, like ancient hieroglyphics that weren’t as much drawn as unearthed.

From New York Times

Mayer frames the story as being discovered by an archaeologist reading hieroglyphics in a tomb.

From Seattle Times

A ritual of teenage hieroglyphics unfolded, etched in the flickering glow of the screen.

From Los Angeles Times

How we put down our thoughts evolves, because that’s what a smart society does — after all, Egyptians don’t use hieroglyphics anymore, nor do Scandinavians use runes.

From Los Angeles Times

There’s all these hieroglyphics all over it, so I don’t know where to read.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• calligraphy
• longhand
• manuscript
• scrawl
• script
• writing