1. words or symbols carved, engraved, or written on a surface, especially stone, metal, or other durable material
2. a short message written in a book, on a photograph, or other item as a dedication or personal note

Examples

• The ancient temple walls were covered with hieroglyphic inscriptions.
• Archaeologists discovered Latin inscriptions on the Roman tombstones.
• The memorial statue bore inscriptions honoring fallen soldiers.
• She collected books with personal inscriptions from famous authors.
• The wedding ring had romantic inscriptions engraved inside the band.
• Museum visitors studied the cuneiform inscriptions on clay tablets.
• He wrote heartfelt inscriptions in all the books he gave as gifts.