petroglyph

noun

pet·​ro·​glyph ˈpe-trə-ˌglif How to pronounce petroglyph (audio)
: a carving or inscription on a rock

Examples of petroglyph in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Anyone convicted of defacing certain sensitive surfaces, such as petroglyphs or rock art, faces steeper penalties. Outside, 27 Jan. 2026 The campsites are near the Atlatl Rock petroglyphs and include RV spots (with power and water) and showers. Evie Carrick, Travel + Leisure, 21 Jan. 2026 Don't miss these Knowledge transmission Archeologists study ancient rock art, which includes paintings on rock (pictographs) or peckings in rock (petroglyphs) to learn about the cultures of ancient peoples. Julian Dossett, Space.com, 28 Nov. 2025 The park is open year-round and the enclosure protecting the petroglyphs is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday, from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Jenna Prestininzi, Freep.com, 16 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for petroglyph

Word History

Etymology

petro- + glyph, probably after hieroglyph

First Known Use

1854, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of petroglyph was in 1854

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Cite this Entry

“Petroglyph.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/petroglyph. Accessed 29 Jan. 2026.

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