adjective

Sumerian

suu-MEER-ree-uhn

Sumerian (adjective) means relating to Sumer, the ancient civilization of southern Mesopotamia. Example: “Sumerian scribes developed one of the earliest writing systems.”

adjective

Relating to Sumer, the ancient civilization of southern Mesopotamia.

"Sumerian scribes developed one of the earliest writing systems."

noun

A person from ancient Sumer.

"The Sumerians built some of the first known cities."

The ancient language of Sumer, a language isolate unrelated to any other known language.

"Sumerian is preserved mainly on clay tablets written in cuneiform."

How to use Sumerian

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishRelating to the ancient Mesopotamian civilization of Sumer, its people, or its language.

Word forms

Sumerians plural

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_____ scribes developed one of the earliest writing systems.

Etymology

Formed in English from Sumer plus the adjective ending -ian.

Rhymes for Sumerian

Asian avian Fabian Indian Syrian simian median Italian Russian Persian Serbian Latvian

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Frequently asked questions

What does “Sumerian” mean?

The word “Sumerian” means relating to Sumer, the ancient civilization of southern Mesopotamia. In plain terms, relating to the ancient Mesopotamian civilization of Sumer, its people, or its language.

How do you pronounce “Sumerian”?

“Sumerian” is pronounced suu-MEER-ree-uhn (/sʊˈmɛɹiən/ in IPA).

How do you use “Sumerian” in a sentence?

Here is “Sumerian” used in a sentence: “Sumerian scribes developed one of the earliest writing systems.”

What part of speech is “Sumerian”?

Depending on how it is used, “Sumerian” can be an adjective and a noun.

How many meanings does “Sumerian” have?

“Sumerian” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: relating to Sumer, the ancient civilization of southern Mesopotamia.