Ethiopic alphabet

noun

: an alphabet of South Semitic origin in which the vocalization is indicated by modification of the basic character (as by the addition of small appendages or by shortening or lengthening of one of the main strokes) and in use since the 4th century a.d. in writing Ethiopic and since about 1600 in adapted form also for Amharic, Tigre, and Tigrinya

Word History

First Known Use

1801, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Ethiopic alphabet was in 1801

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

Dictionary Entries Near Ethiopic alphabet

Cite this Entry

“Ethiopic alphabet.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Ethiopic%20alphabet. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!