Dictionary

hieratic

adjective hi·er·at·ic \ˌhī-(ə-)ˈra-tik\

Definition of HIERATIC

1
:  constituting or belonging to a cursive form of ancient Egyptian writing simpler than the hieroglyphic
2
3
:  highly stylized or formal <hieratic poses>
hi·er·at·i·cal·ly \-ti-k(ə-)lē\ adverb
ADVERTISEMENT

Origin of HIERATIC

Latin hieraticus sacerdotal, from Greek hieratikos, from hierasthai to perform priestly functions, from hieros sacred; probably akin to Sanskrit iṣara vigorous
First Known Use: 1669

Browse

Next Word in the Dictionary: hieratitePrevious Word in the Dictionary: hierarchyAll Words Near: hieratic
ADVERTISEMENT
How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.
Test your vocab with our fun, fast game
Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears