KHMER SCRIPT Meaning and
Definition
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Khmer script refers to the writing system used to write the Khmer language. It is an abugida script, which means that each character represents a consonant sound combined with a specific inherent vowel sound. The script is used primarily in Cambodia, where it is the official script and widely used for daily communication and official documents.
The Khmer script consists of 74 individual symbols, called graphemes, which include 33 consonant letters, 23 dependent vowels that modify the inherent vowel, 10 independent vowels, and various diacritic marks. The characters are arranged in a grid-like structure with the consonant letters placed at the top and the vowel symbols positioned around them. The placement of diacritic marks can alter the sound of the consonant-vowel combination.
The script has a long history, dating back to the 7th century, and has undergone various modifications over time to accommodate phonetic changes and changes in the Khmer language. It is written from left to right, and words are separated by spaces.
Khmer script is not only used for writing the Khmer language but is also utilized in writing several minority languages spoken in Cambodia, such as Cham and Pali. It has played a significant role in preserving the cultural heritage and identity of Cambodia, and efforts have been made to promote its use and preservation in contemporary society.
Etymology of KHMER SCRIPT
The word "Khmer script" refers to the writing system used for the Khmer language, which is the official language of Cambodia. The term "Khmer" is derived from the Angkor Empire, an ancient civilization that thrived in Southeast Asia from the 9th to 15th centuries. The Angkor Empire was known for its advancements in architecture, art, and linguistics. Therefore, the term "Khmer script" signifies the writing system associated with the Khmer people and their language.
