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cuneiform

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˈkjuːnɪfɔːm/

KK: /ˈkyuːnɪfɔːrm/

adjective
Definition

Relating to a writing system that uses wedge-shaped characters, often associated with ancient civilizations like the Sumerians and Babylonians.


Example

The archaeologist discovered cuneiform tablets that contained ancient texts.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever seen cuneiform writing in museums?
Sloth B
Yeah, it's really fascinating how they used those wedge shapes.
Sloth A
I know, right? It's amazing to think that was once a common way to communicate.
Sloth B
Definitely! I love learning about ancient scripts like cuneiform.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
wedge
angular
triangular
Antonyms
flat
round
smooth
noun
Definition

A type of writing that uses characters made up of small wedge-shaped marks, often associated with ancient civilizations like the Sumerians and Babylonians.


Example

The ancient tablets were inscribed with cuneiform, revealing stories from thousands of years ago.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever heard about cuneiform writing?
Sloth B
Yeah, it's one of the earliest forms of writing, right?
Sloth A
Exactly! I find it fascinating how those wedge shapes were used.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Cuneiform is formed from "cuneus" (meaning wedge) and "forma" (meaning shape or form). The word describes a writing system that uses wedge-shaped marks on clay tablets.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'wedge' shape ('cuneus') of the characters used in this ancient writing system, which helps you remember that 'cuneiform' refers to this unique form of writing.

Visually Confused Words
acneiform
uniform
clupeiform
aculeiform
unciform
runiform
luniform
funiform
Is this page helpful?
It really is interesting how it connects us to ancient civilizations.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
wedge
character
symbol
Antonyms
flat
smooth
plain