aramaic
|ar-a-ma-ic|
/ˌærəˈmeɪɪk/
language (of the Arameans)
Etymology
'Aramaic' originates from Greek 'Aramaïkos' (Aramaïkos), later via Latin 'Aramaicus', ultimately referring to the people called the Arameans (from the Semitic placename 'Aram').
'Aramaic' changed from Greek 'Aramaïkos' to Latin 'Aramaicus' and entered English through Medieval/Modern scholarly usage as 'Aramaic'.
Initially it meant 'of or relating to the Arameans (the people of Aram)', and over time it came to be used specifically for the language and its dialects, the modern sense 'Aramaic (the language)'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a Semitic language historically spoken by the Arameans and used widely in the Near East from about 1200 BCE; also refers to its modern dialects.
He can read ancient aramaic inscriptions.
Synonyms
Adjective 1
relating to the Arameans, their language, culture, or writings.
The museum displayed aramaic manuscripts from the region.
Last updated: 2025/10/01 17:36