petroglyph

UK: ˈpet.rə.ɡlɪf | US: ˈpe.trə.ɡlɪf

Definition

  1. n. a carving or inscription on a rock surface, typically prehistoric

Structure
petro <rock>glyph <carving>
Etymology

petroglyph = petro<rock> + glyph<carving>

  • petro: From Greek petros (rock, stone), used in scientific terms like petroleum (rock oil).
  • glyph: From Greek glyphein (to carve), seen in words like hieroglyph (sacred carving).

Etymology Origin:
The word petroglyph combines Greek roots to describe ancient rock carvings. Petro- anchors the meaning to stone, while -glyph specifies the act of carving, reflecting humanity’s early artistic and communicative practices on natural canvases.

Examples

  1. The archaeologists discovered a petroglyph depicting a hunting scene.

  2. Petroglyphs in the desert reveal the cultural history of indigenous tribes.

  3. This petroglyph is estimated to be over 3,000 years old.

  4. Visitors are prohibited from touching the fragile petroglyphs.

  5. The spiral patterns in the petroglyph may symbolize celestial events.