A project to compile a dictionary of ancient cuneiform (literally: wedge-shaped) writing, started 90 years ago, has now been completed. The Chicago Assyrian Dictionary project was commenced by James Henry Breasted, an archaeologist and the founder of Chicago University’s Oriental Institute, in 1921. The project aimed to compile a dictionary of the Akkadian language, and the dialects spoken in ancient Mesopotamia.

According to an article published in 1991, Breasted originally imagined the project would last around ten years. An optimistic goal by anyone’s standards, considering the main volumes of the OED took around fifty.

The 21-volume dictionary was based on writing found in clay tablets and stone discovered in Mesopotamia, dating from 2500 BC to AD 100. The archaeology work carried out by the Institute unearthed letters written on clay tablets, discussing everyday matters such as family and financial worries. The letters provided insight into the everyday lives of ancient Mesopotamians, and as Gil Stein, director of the Oriental Institute put it:

“The Assyrian Dictionary is not simply a word list. By detailing the history and range of uses of each word, this unique dictionary is in essence a cultural encyclopedia of Mesopotamian history, society, literature, law and religion and is an indispensable research tool for any scholar anywhere who seeks to explore the written record of Mesopotamian civilization.”

Congratulations to the team responsible for this tremendous achievement, which will enrich our understanding of ancient languages and cultures.