Definition

The process of converting letters or words from one writing system into another, so that the original sounds are preserved.

Example

The transliteration of the name into the Latin alphabet made it easier for non-native speakers to pronounce.

Conversation

I was reading a book that had a lot of transliteration in it.

Oh really? That sounds interesting!

Yeah, it helped me understand the original language better.

I love when books do that; it makes them more accessible.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Transliteration → It is formed from "trans-" (meaning across) and "literare" (from Latin, meaning to write). The word refers to the act of writing or representing words from one script into another across different languages.

Memory Tip

Think of writing words 'across' ('trans-') different scripts — that's what transliteration means.

Visually Confused Words