ancient language
Long-extinct speech form
An ancient language is one no longer spoken as a native tongue, preserved only in written records or scholarly study: Latin, Ancient Greek, Sanskrit, Classical Hebrew.
The phrase sometimes applies to languages still spoken but dramatically changed from earlier forms.
She studied ancient languages at university.
The inscription was in an ancient language no one could read.
- LatinAncient Roman language
- GreekOf Athenian origin
- SanskritAncient Indo-Aryan language
- hieroglyphicsSymbolic picture-based writing
- cuneiformStylus-impressed ancient script
Aramaic · Hebrew · runes · scrolls · tablets · sacred scripture · inscription · script · dead · forgotten · scholars · translation · deciphered · Rosetta · papyrus · clay · stone tablet · temple
temporal status
ancient languagemodern language
Currently spoken communication system
contemporary language · living language · spoken language · vernacular · mother tongue