Dictionary

Explore meaning, context, and usage with an online dictionary experience optimized for multilingual workflows.

Clear

Try these words

Meaning of palimpsest

Source language: EnglishDictionary language: English

palimpsest

Pronunciation:/ˈpælɪmpsɛst//ˈpælɪmpsɛst/

noun

Definitions

  1. A manuscript or document that has been erased or scraped clean, for reuse of the paper, parchment, vellum, or other medium on which it was written.

  2. Monumental brasses that have been reused by engraving of the blank back side.

  3. Circular features believed to be lunar craters that have been obliterated by later volcanic activity.

  4. Geological features thought to be related to features or effects below the surface.

verb

Definitions

  1. To scrape clean, as in parchment, for reuse.

  2. On paper: to reuse, often by erasure or change of pen direction or color. Especially fueled by Earth Day.

    Example: Typically refers to a multi-layered work, e.g.: new ads covering old on a roadside sign.