Noun
/kjuːˈneɪɪfɔːrm/
Cuneiform refers to a system of writing that was used in the ancient Middle East, particularly in Mesopotamia, from around the late fourth millennium BCE to the first century CE. It consists of wedge-shaped marks made on clay tablets with a stylus. The term is derived from the Latin word cuneus, meaning "wedge."
Cuneiform was primarily used in written communication for administrative and literary purposes. Its usage has declined significantly over time, making it rare in contemporary contexts. Its frequency can be categorized as low in modern English, as it primarily appears in historical or archaeological discussions. The word is more often used in written contexts than in speech.
Cuneiform was one of the earliest forms of writing developed by the Sumerians.
Cuneiform fue una de las primeras formas de escritura desarrollada por los sumerios.
Archaeologists discovered a tablet inscribed with cuneiform characters in the ancient ruins.
Los arqueólogos descubrieron una tabla inscripta con caracteres cuneiformes en las antiguas ruinas.
The study of cuneiform has provided valuable insights into ancient cultures.
El estudio del cuneiforme ha proporcionado valiosas perspectivas sobre las culturas antiguas.
Cuneiform itself is not commonly used in idiomatic expressions. However, the concept of writing or recording history can be associated with various phrases or expressions in a broader contextual sense. Below are some idiomatic expressions that relate to writing and recording:
"To put pen to paper" means to write something down.
"Poner el lápiz sobre el papel" significa escribir algo."
"The pen is mightier than the sword" suggests that writing is a more effective tool than violence for achieving change.
"La pluma es más poderosa que la espada" sugiere que la escritura es una herramienta más eficaz que la violencia para lograr un cambio."
"Read between the lines" refers to understanding the underlying meaning of something written.
"Leer entre líneas" se refiere a entender el significado subyacente de algo escrito."
"Write it off" means to dismiss or disregard something, often in terms of debt or expense.
"Darlo por perdido" significa descartar o ignorar algo, a menudo en términos de deuda o gasto."
The word "cuneiform" originates from the Latin word cuneus, which means "wedge," and the English suffix "-form," indicating shape or structure. It reflects the appearance of the characters created by the wedge-shaped stylus on clay tablets.
This comprehensive overview provides a detailed look at the term "cuneiform," highlighting its significance in historical contexts and its relationship to writing and communication.