Valeria Chomsky, also known as Valeria Wasserman Chomsky, is best known for being the second wife of Noam Chomsky, one of the most influential intellectuals of our time. However, beyond her marriage to Chomsky, Valeria has built a professional life as a translator, linguist, and cultural communicator. Her story is one of quiet intellect, cultural exchange, and a deep commitment to language and its nuances.
Early Life and Background
Valeria Chomsky was born as Valeria Wasserman in Brazil in 1963. Her early life was rooted in the rich cultural and intellectual atmosphere of Brazil, where she developed a keen interest in languages. Growing up, Valeria was exposed to both the legal world and the world of linguistics, fields that would shape her professional career. She pursued higher education in law before switching her focus to linguistics — a decision that would lead her to become an accomplished translator.
Valeria Chomsky Career and Professional Life
Before meeting Noam Chomsky, Valeria established herself as a skilled linguist and translator. She became particularly known for her ability to translate academic texts from Portuguese to English and vice versa, focusing not just on the technical accuracy of the language but also on preserving cultural meanings and subtleties. Her work, especially in academic translation, is highly regarded for its precision and thoughtful consideration of cultural context.
In addition to her linguistic work, Valeria has also been involved in cross-cultural communication projects, where her background in law and linguistics allowed her to navigate complex legal and cultural landscapes. She was involved with ArtVentures Cultural Projects & Translations, where her professional skills contributed to building bridges between cultures and languages.
Her career, though highly respected, has mostly stayed out of the public eye, with Valeria choosing a quieter professional life outside of her husband’s fame.
Valeria Chomsky Relationship with Noam Chomsky
Valeria Chomsky became widely known to the public when she married Noam Chomsky in 2014, after the death of his first wife, Carol Chomsky, in 2008. Their marriage attracted attention, in part because of the significant age gap between the two (Chomsky being in his 80s when they married). However, their relationship also highlighted the intellectual and personal connection they shared.
As an academic and intellectual powerhouse, Noam Chomsky has spent decades shaping the fields of linguistics, philosophy, and political critique. Valeria, with her linguistic expertise and background in translation, was an ideal intellectual partner. While Valeria prefers to maintain a private profile, she has supported her husband both personally and professionally, particularly in recent years as he has navigated health challenges.
The couple lives primarily in Brazil, where they have established a home in São Paulo. Valeria has been by Noam’s side during his recovery from health issues, often speaking to the public on his behalf to address false rumors about his well-being. In 2024, when incorrect reports about Noam’s death circulated, it was Valeria who publicly clarified the situation, reaffirming that he was alive and recovering.
Valeria Chomsky Public Image and Privacy
Despite her high-profile marriage, Valeria is known for being very private. Unlike many spouses of famous individuals, she avoids the public spotlight and rarely appears at events or in media. Instead, she focuses on her work as a translator and linguist. Her life remains largely out of the media’s gaze, a sharp contrast to the global recognition her husband receives.
This choice reflects a desire for personal privacy and a focus on intellectual pursuits rather than public attention. Valeria’s public appearances are often limited to clarifying statements or supporting Noam during significant events, such as public health crises or when misinformation about his health surfaces.
The Power of Language: Valeria’s Legacy
While Valeria Chomsky may not be as publicly visible as her husband, her contribution to the world of linguistics and translation is significant. Her role as a cultural translator goes beyond the simple conversion of words from one language to another; she works to preserve the essence of cultural meanings and nuances, a critical skill in academic and literary translation.
Her work is a testament to the importance of language in shaping our understanding of the world. Language is not just a tool for communication but a reflection of culture, history, and identity. Valeria’s dedication to this craft highlights how translation is both an art and a science — one that requires deep understanding and sensitivity to context.
As she continues her professional life in Brazil, Valeria’s legacy as a linguist and translator will likely remain one of quiet influence — helping shape the way different cultures communicate, understand, and engage with one another.
Personal Life and Family
Valeria has been described as warm, intellectual, and deeply committed to her work and family. She is a stepmother to Noam’s three children from his first marriage: Aviva, Diane, and Harry Chomsky. The couple does not have children together, and Valeria’s stepchildren have often been seen attending academic events or public appearances alongside Noam.
Though much of their life remains private, it is clear that family is a central theme in Valeria’s life. She has shown a great deal of support for her husband’s career and health, often playing a key role in managing family affairs while remaining out of the public spotlight.
Valeria Chomsky Age and Personal Details
- Born in: 1963
- Current Age (as of 2025): 62 years old
- Profession: Translator, linguist, cultural communicator
- Residence: São Paulo, Brazil
- Spouse: Noam Chomsky (married in 2014)
Valeria’s age (born in 1963) and personal details are not often discussed in detail, as she has chosen to keep her life relatively private. However, she continues to live a fulfilling and intellectually enriching life, focusing on her career and supporting her husband’s work.
Conclusion
Valeria Chomsky (née Wasserman) is a private intellectual figure who has built a respected career as a translator and linguist. While she is best known to the public as the wife of Noam Chomsky, her professional life speaks volumes about her own intellectual contributions. Valeria’s life is a testament to the power of language in bridging cultures, as well as the importance of intellectual partnerships in the pursuit of knowledge and personal growth.
While her public appearances remain rare, her work continues to influence and inspire those who value the art of translation, linguistics, and cultural communication. Through her quiet yet impactful presence, Valeria Chomsky has shaped the intellectual landscape in ways that go far beyond her relationship with her famous husband.