cartouche

Syllable breakdown

Dictionary meaning

In ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics, an oval or oblong enclosing a group of hieroglyphs representing the name of a pharaoh or deity; now used for any oblong figure used as a decorative element.

History and origin

French — 'cartouche' (roll of paper, cartridge) — from the scroll-like shape.

Examples

• Champollion cracked the Rosetta Stone code by studying the cartouches.