1. A cursive form of Egyptian hieroglyphics; used especially the priests.
2. Adhering to fixed types or methods; highly restrained and formal: "The more hieratic sculptures leave the viewer curiously unmoved."
3. Written or belonging to a cursive form of ancient Egyptian writing: "Hieratic Egyptian script."
4. Associated with the priesthood or priests; that is, sacred, characterizing or used by priests: "Hieratic gestures."

"In some countries, priests form a hieratic group with extensive political power, and even, sometimes, forming a hierocracy."

5. Fixed, formal, and stylized in a traditional way, e.g. as ancient Egyptian art is.
6. Of or associated with sacred people or offices; sacerdotal.
7. Etymology: from Latin hieraticus, "priestly"; borrowed from Greek hieratikos, "priestly" and ultimately from hieros, "holy".