Ancient Egypt Key Terms

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Nile River

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The longest river in the world, flowing through northeastern Africa, and a crucial part of ancient Egyptian civilization.

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Cataracts

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Sections of the Nile River characterized by rapids and rocky terrain, which served as natural barriers.

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Delta

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A landform at the mouth of a river where it splits into several outlets, such as the Nile Delta in Egypt.

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Pharaoh

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The title used by the rulers of ancient Egypt, considered to be both a king and a god.

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Dynasty

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A series of rulers from the same family or lineage, significant in the context of ancient Egyptian history.

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Social Hierarchy

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The division of society into different levels of power and status, prevalent in ancient Egypt.

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Nobles

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Members of the upper class in ancient Egyptian society, often holding significant power and land.

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Elite

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A group of people considered to be the best in a particular society, often with wealth and influence.

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Papyrus

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A plant used in ancient Egypt to make a paper-like writing material.

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Afterlife

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The belief in a life after death, which was a central part of ancient Egyptian religion.