The word “cuneiform” literally means “wedge-shaped,” referring to the wedge-like marks used in this ancient writing system from Mesopotamia.

Basic meaning

  • In English, cuneiform describes something that is wedge-shaped in form.
  • The term comes from Latin cuneus meaning “wedge” plus -form meaning “shape” or “having the form of.”

In history and writing

  • As a noun, cuneiform is the name of an early writing system made of wedge-shaped impressions pressed into clay tablets in ancient Mesopotamia.
  • The script is called “cuneiform” because its signs are composed of these characteristic wedge-shaped strokes.