Hieroglyphic writing is an ancient system of writing used by the Egyptians. It consists of symbols and pictures that represent sounds, words, or ideas. This form of writing was often carved on monuments, tombs, and temples, serving both decorative and communicative purposes. The symbols in hieroglyphics can represent objects, animals, or actions, and they can be read in multiple directions. This writing system was used for thousands of years, primarily for religious texts and official inscriptions, until it gradually fell out of use after the Roman Empire expanded into Egypt.