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Epigraphy - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Epigraphy is the study of inscriptions or engravings on ancient materials like stone or metal, used to understand historical writing systems and cultures. It helps decipher past civilizations.

epigraphy

/ɪˈpɪɡrəfi/ /ɪˈpɪɡrəfi/

Definition:

The study of inscriptions or epigraphs, especially ancient ones.

Synonyms:

inscription study, paleography, calligraphy

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

illiteracy, ignorance

Common Collocations:

ancient epigraphy, Greek epigraphy, epigraphy research, epigraphy collection

Derivatives:

epigraphist, epigraphic, epigraphical

Usage Tips:

Use 'epigraphy' when referring to the scholarly analysis of historical inscriptions on stone or metal.

Common Phrases:

deciphering ancient scripts, stone inscriptions study, writing on monuments

Etymology:

From Greek 'epigraphein' (to write upon) and '-graphy' (writing).

Examples:

  • 1. Epigraphy helps archaeologists understand ancient civilizations through their inscriptions.
  • 2. The museum's new exhibit features stunning examples of Roman epigraphy.
  • 3. She specializes in Greek epigraphy and has published several papers on it.
  • 4. Learning epigraphy requires knowledge of ancient languages and scripts.
  • 5. The professor explained how epigraphy differs from paleography in his lecture.

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