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a distinct writing system developed in the 5th century AD to write the Armenian language, featuring unique letter shapes and phonetic values
What is the "Armenian alphabet"?
The Armenian alphabet is a writing system created in the early 5th century by the scholar Mesrop Mashtots for the Armenian language. It consists of 38 letters, each representing a unique sound, and is written from left to right. The alphabet includes both consonants and vowels, such as "Ա" (A) and "Բ" (B). For example, the word "Հայաստան" (Hayastan), meaning "Armenia," showcases the use of both types of letters in its spelling. The Armenian alphabet is significant for its cultural heritage, as it has played a crucial role in the preservation of the Armenian language, literature, and identity throughout history.