# assyrians

/əˈsɪɹiənz/ (US) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/assyrians
Updated: 2026-10-18

## Definition

people with family roots in an ancient culture from the Middle East, in the area of modern Iraq and Syria. Many still speak Neo-Aramaic and belong to Christian churches.

For teachers: members of an ethnic group indigenous to Mesopotamia, descended from the population of the ancient Assyrian Empire in what is now northern Iraq and nearby areas. Often distinguished by use of Neo-Aramaic languages and adherence to Eastern Christian churches.

## Examples

- Many Assyrians speak Neo-Aramaic at home.
- The community centre hosts classes where Assyrians teach children their language and traditional music.
- Although the ancient capital at Nineveh fell in 612 BCE, modern Assyrians maintain a distinct cultural identity shaped by Aramaic heritage, Christian faith, and centuries of displacement.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.