# papyrus

/pɐpˈaɪɹəs/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/papyrus
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

an ancient paper-like material made from the stems of a plant that grows in Egypt. People used it to write important documents and books thousands of years ago.

For teachers: a paper-like material made from the pith of the Cyperus papyrus plant, used as a writing surface in ancient Egypt and the Mediterranean. Often refers to the physical scrolls or documents written on this medium.

## Examples

- The museum displays ancient scrolls made of papyrus.
- Archaeologists discovered a well-preserved papyrus scroll containing a list of taxes from the time of the pharaohs.
- The transition from papyrus to parchment in the late Roman Empire allowed for more durable manuscripts that could survive the humid conditions of the Mediterranean climate.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.