A consonantal alphabet is a writing system that primarily represents consonant sounds, often leaving vowel sounds unmarked or implied. This type of alphabet is commonly found in languages such as Hebrew and Arabic, where the core structure of words is based on consonantal roots. Readers typically infer the missing vowels from context.
In a consonantal alphabet, each symbol corresponds to a consonant, making it efficient for languages with a strong reliance on consonantal roots. This system contrasts with a full alphabet, like the Latin alphabet, which includes both consonants and vowels, providing a more explicit representation of sounds in words.