The focus of this paper concerns different verbal expressions found within the ancient Egyptian historical and archaeological record that describes the act of playing different instruments. This paper sheds light on ancient Egyptian hieroglyphic terminology by presenting the corresponding translations and transliterations from the Pharaonic Period. A discussion is carried out concerning whether or not the terms in question have any polysemic meanings as well as any traceable etymology or developmental aspects. Tomb scenes with captions of expressions on how to play musical instruments are the primary sources for this paper to demonstrate the different variations of the terminology.