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Uncial: meaning, definitions and examples

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uncial

 

[ ˈʌnʃəl ]

Noun / Adjective
Context #1 | Noun

writing style

Uncial is a script that was used from the 3rd to the 8th centuries AD in Latin and Greek manuscripts. It is characterized by its rounded, majuscule letters that are often spaced widely and are easily legible. Uncial was often employed for religious texts and has influenced various modern typefaces.

Synonyms

ancient script, capital letter, majuscule

Examples of usage

  • The manuscript was written in uncial script.
  • Scholars study uncial texts for historical linguistics.
  • Uncial letters can be seen in ancient religious documents.
Context #2 | Adjective

typography

Describing a type of script that is characterized by rounded, uppercase letters often used in manuscripts. Uncial typefaces are typically used for decorative purposes in modern typography.

Synonyms

capitalized, decorative, uppercase

Examples of usage

  • She chose an uncial font for the wedding invitations.
  • The book cover features uncial lettering.
  • Uncial style adds a historical touch to modern designs.

Translations

Translations of the word "uncial" in other languages:

🇵🇹 uncial

🇮🇳 अंकित

🇩🇪 Unziale

🇮🇩 uncial

🇺🇦 унціал

🇵🇱 uncjał

🇯🇵 アンクシャル

🇫🇷 uncial

🇪🇸 uncial

🇹🇷 uncial

🇰🇷 언시아

🇸🇦 أونسيال

🇨🇿 uncial

🇸🇰 uncial

🇨🇳 古体字

🇸🇮 uncial

🇮🇸 uncial

🇰🇿 унціал

🇬🇪 უნციური

🇦🇿 uncial

🇲🇽 uncial

Word origin

The term 'uncial' originates from the Latin word 'uncialis', which derives from 'uncia', meaning 'one-twelfth' or 'inch'. This refers to the fact that uncial script was originally developed to provide a clear and easily readable form of writing that could be used for sacred texts. The script became prominent during the early Christian period, as it was suitable for copying manuscripts needed for the growing Christian church. Its rounded and open characters were an improvement over earlier scripts, making it less prone to misreading. As time progressed, uncial gradually fell out of favor in the West, influenced by the development of other scripts such as minuscule. However, uncial remains influential in the study of medieval manuscripts and has left a lasting impact on contemporary typography, often used for its aesthetic qualities in books and artistic design.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,716 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.