Palimpsest
(noun)
A manuscript, typically from ancient or medieval times, on which the original text has been erased and replaced with new writing, often leaving traces of the earlier text visible.
Origin:
Derived from the greek word "palimpsestos" meaning "scraped again", the word "palimpsest" came into use in the 17th century.
Examples:
- The ancient palimpsest was deciphered using advanced imaging technology.
- Palimpsests are valuable sources of information for scholars studying ancient languages and cultures.
- Palimpsests are often found in the form of parchment or papyrus scrolls.
- The palimpsest revealed a previously unknown text beneath the visible one.
- Palimpsests are also used in digital mediums, where the data is overwritten on the same space.