| Definition: An abjad is a type of writing system where there are graphemes for consonants but not for vowels. However, vowels may be shown by marks on the graphemes. Note: This is in contrast to alphabets, where there are graphemes for both consonants and vowels.
 The Aleppo Codex: a 10th century Hebrew Bible with Masoretic pointing (Source: Wikimedia Commons) |
| Example: Written Hebrew is an abjad, whereas written English is an alphabet. |
| Etymology: Coined by Peter T. Daniels, the word is an acronym derived from what were once the first four consonants in the Arabic alphabet. |
-
aka: consonantary
-
see: abugida | alphabet | bicameral alphabet | syllabary | unicameral alphabet
Please comment