Tigrinya Keyboard Online
Type in Tigrinya Online using the virtual keyboard below and then copy it to your clipboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Tigrinya script?
Tigrinya is written using the Ge'ez script, which is an 'abugida'. In this system, each character represents a consonant-vowel syllable. It's the same script used for Amharic.
Where is Tigrinya spoken?
Tigrinya is a major language spoken in the Horn of Africa, primarily in the Tigray region of Ethiopia and in central Eritrea, where it is an official language.
How do I type the different vowel sounds?
Each base consonant character can be modified into one of seven forms to represent the seven vowel sounds of the language. Our keyboard shows these seven forms for several common consonants (e.g., 'ሀ', 'ሁ', 'ሂ', 'ሃ', 'ሄ', 'ህ', 'ሆ').
Is there a phonetic typing mode for Tigrinya?
Yes! Enabling 'Phonetic Typing' is the most convenient way to type. You can use English letters that correspond to the Tigrinya sounds, and the tool will automatically create the correct syllabic characters.
Are there capital letters in the Ge'ez script?
No, the Ge'ez script does not have a distinction between uppercase and lowercase letters.
Is this tool suitable for learning Tigrinya?
It is an excellent resource for practicing typing and becoming familiar with the unique syllabic characters of the Ge'ez script. For full language learning, it should be used with other educational materials.
How is Tigrinya related to Amharic and Ge'ez?
All three are Ethiopic Semitic languages. Ge'ez is the ancient liturgical language. Amharic and Tigrinya are two of the most widely spoken modern descendants, and both use the Ge'ez script.
What are the 'guttural' consonants like 'ሐ', 'ዐ', and 'హ'?
Tigrinya has a set of guttural or pharyngeal consonants that are pronounced in the back of the throat. These sounds, like 'ḥ' and 'ʽ', are characteristic of Semitic languages.
How do I type my name in Tigrinya?
The best method is to use the phonetic typing mode. Sound out your name with English letters, and the tool will convert it to the closest Tigrinya script equivalent.
Do I need to install a special font to see the characters?
No, most modern operating systems have built-in fonts (like 'Noto Serif Ethiopic') that can correctly display the Ge'ez script used for Tigrinya.
Why are the characters displayed in rows of seven?
This keyboard layout helps illustrate how the abugida works. Each row shows a single consonant 'family' modified through the seven different vowel forms.
How can I copy the text I have written?
Simply use the 'Copy Text' button. This will copy all the Tigrinya text in the text area to your clipboard, ready to be pasted elsewhere.
Is the punctuation the same as in English?
Tigrinya uses some unique punctuation marks. The word space is '፡', the full stop is '።', and the comma is '፣'.
What is a 'glottalized' or 'ejective' consonant?
Tigrinya has ejective consonants (like 'p', 't', 'k' with an apostrophe in transcription: p', t', k'). These are 'popping' sounds made with a burst of air from a closed glottis. They are represented by unique characters like 'ጰ', 'ጠ', and 'ቀ'.
Is this language written from right to left?
No, Tigrinya, like Amharic, is written from left to right.