Definition of papyrus

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< papyrology

par >

pa·py·rus    (p-prs) KEY  

NOUN:
pl. pa·py·rus·es or pa·py·ri   (-r) KEY  

1. A tall, aquatic, Mediterranean sedge (Cyperus papyrus) having numerous drooping rays grouped in umbels. Also called Egyptian paper rush , paper plant .
2. 1. A material on which to write made from the pith or the stems of this sedge, used especially by the ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans.
   2. A document written on this material.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English papirus, from Latin paprus, from Greek papros

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