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Glite Dictionary
siglum

siglum

9.9
A sign or short letter that stands for words in old writings
  • noun
  • /ˈsɪɡləm/
  • Specialized
translation icon : siglo
  • In medieval texts, a siglum was often used instead of writing common words in full.

Examples

  • Scholars must interpret the different sigla found on ancient Roman coins to understand their meaning.

  • The archivist explained the purpose of each siglum used by the scribes.

  • The manuscript featured a unique siglum for each section.

  • Can you identify the siglum used in this document?

  • In medieval texts, a siglum was often used instead of writing common words in full.

  • The archivist explained the purpose of each siglum used by the scribes.

  • Can you identify the siglum used in this document?

Synonyms

symbol
vssiglum
73 2.7

A mark, like a letter, that stands for something

is specific to marks that represent words or phrases in old objects
glyph
vssiglum
15 8.9

A carved or written sign that stands for something in writing

is not limited to carved forms and appears in manuscripts and metalwork
signum
vssiglum
  • Specialized
1 9.9

A mark used in books and music to show meaning or special instructions

applies more to marks that record words or phrases on ancient items
sigla
vssiglum
  • Specialized
9.9

Letters or signs in a text that stand for other words and sources

is used more widely for marks on ancient objects like coins and medals

Surface Forms

siglum singular
sigla plural

Etymology

Siglum comes from the old Latin root sign- and the Latin word signum, meaning 'sign' or 'mark', the same idea you see in English words like sign and signal. So a siglum is a small 'sign' or mark used as a short form for a whole word in old manuscripts.