In here we show you top 10 rarest languages still spoken in the world. There are currently 7,097 languages spoken around the world, but this list is constantly evolving as rare languages continue to disappear at an alarming rate. Approximately every two weeks, a language becomes extinct, and an unfortunate one-third of these languages have fewer than 1,000 native speakers. Astonishingly, some languages even have fewer than 10 remaining speakers!
The majority of living languages, which amounts to nearly 6,000, are considered endangered or vulnerable. This classification is due to various factors such as a dwindling number of speakers, lack of educational resources available for language preservation, or the unfortunate reality that younger generations are choosing not to speak these languages.
Now, let’s delve into a glimpse of 10 among the thousands of rare languages and their primary locations of usage.
Table of Contents
- 10. Chamicuro
- 09. Dumi
- 08. Ongota
- 07. Liki
- 06. Tanema
- 05. Njerep
- 04. Chemehuevi
- 03. Lemerig
- 02. Kawishana
- 01. Taushiro
- Conclusion
10. Chamicuro
Chamicuro is a Southern Arawakan language that was spoken by a small indigenous community along the Pampa Hermosa River, a tributary of the Huallaga River in the Loreto region of northern Peru. This language is considered one of the rarest languages in the world due to its extremely low number of speakers.
In 2011, there were only eight known speakers of Chamicuro, all of whom were elderly individuals. These speakers were the last living remnants of a once-vibrant linguistic tradition that had been passed down through generations. However, by 2018, there were no longer any known native speakers of Chamicuro, making it effectively an extinct language.
The decline and eventual disappearance of Chamicuro can be attributed to various factors. One significant factor is the historical marginalization and displacement of indigenous communities in the Loreto region, leading to the erosion of their cultural and linguistic heritage. The encroachment of Spanish and other dominant languages, as well as the influence of modernization and globalization, further contributed to the decline of Chamicuro and other indigenous languages in the area.
Efforts have been made by linguists, anthropologists, and activists to document and preserve the Chamicuro language before its extinction. Researchers have conducted fieldwork and recorded linguistic data, including audio recordings, transcriptions, and grammatical descriptions, in order to create a lasting record of this unique language.
Additionally, initiatives to revitalize and maintain indigenous languages have gained traction globally, including in Peru. These efforts aim to raise awareness about the importance of linguistic diversity and cultural heritage, promoting language revitalization and providing resources for future generations to learn and engage with endangered languages like Chamicuro.
The loss of a language such as Chamicuro represents more than just the disappearance of a means of communication; it signifies the erosion of a distinct worldview, cultural identity, and the accumulated knowledge and wisdom of a community. Preserving and revitalizing endangered languages is crucial for maintaining the richness of human heritage and promoting linguistic diversity, which are invaluable resources for our collective understanding of the world.
09. Dumi
Dumi is indeed one of the rarest languages in the world, belonging to the Kiranti language family. It is primarily spoken in the northern region of Khotang district in Nepal, specifically in the areas surrounding the Tap and Rava rivers, as well as their confluence. The language is predominantly used in villages such as Makpa, Kharbari, Baksila, Sapteshwor, and Kharmi.
Dumi exhibits some interesting linguistic characteristics, including the presence of dialectal variations. The main dialects within the language are Kharbari, Lamdija, and Makpa, with the Makpa dialect being the most distinct and divergent among them. These dialectal differences reflect the linguistic diversity within the Dumi-speaking communities and highlight the rich linguistic tapestry found in this region.
Due to its geographic isolation and the relatively small number of speakers, Dumi faces a significant risk of endangerment. The language is gradually losing ground to Nepali, the dominant language in Nepal, as well as the influence of globalization and modernization. As younger generations increasingly shift towards Nepali as their primary language, the transmission of Dumi to future generations is becoming increasingly limited.
Efforts have been made by linguists, researchers, and local communities to document and preserve Dumi. Language documentation projects have collected valuable linguistic data, including audio recordings, transcriptions, and grammatical analyses, which serve to create a comprehensive record of the language and its unique features. These initiatives aim to ensure that Dumi’s linguistic heritage is preserved and made accessible to future generations.
Language revitalization efforts have also gained momentum, with community members and language advocates working together to promote the use of Dumi within the community. These initiatives include language revitalization programs, educational materials, and community events that celebrate and encourage the use of Dumi. By fostering a sense of pride and ownership over their language, these efforts hope to ensure the continued vitality of Dumi.
The preservation and revitalization of endangered languages like Dumi are of paramount importance. Such languages carry immense cultural, historical, and linguistic value, providing insights into the diversity of human expression and thought. Preserving Dumi not only safeguards a unique linguistic system but also contributes to the preservation of the cultural heritage and identity of the Dumi-speaking communities in Nepal.
08. Ongota
Ongota, also known as Birale or Birayle, is an extremely rare language that is classified as moribund, meaning it is critically endangered and on the brink of extinction. It is spoken in southwest Ethiopia and was once the language of a small village situated on the west bank of the Weito River.
According to a UNESCO report in 2012, Ongota had only 12 elderly native speakers left out of a total ethnic population of 115 individuals. The remaining speakers were the last remnants of a community that once used Ongota as their primary means of communication. Unfortunately, the majority of the village had already shifted to adopting the Tsamai language instead.
The decline of Ongota can be attributed to several factors. The small size of the community, geographic isolation, and limited intergenerational transmission of the language have contributed to its endangered status. Furthermore, socio-cultural and economic pressures, as well as the influence of dominant languages in the region, have led to the decline of Ongota and the adoption of other languages.
The loss of Ongota represents not only the disappearance of a linguistic system but also the erosion of a unique cultural heritage. Languages like Ongota hold within them a wealth of traditional knowledge, cultural practices, and a distinct worldview that cannot be easily replaced. The extinction of a language signifies the loss of an invaluable piece of human diversity and intellectual wealth.
Efforts have been made by linguists, researchers, and activists to document and preserve the Ongota language. Linguistic documentation projects have focused on collecting and analyzing linguistic data, including recordings, transcriptions, and grammatical descriptions, to create a comprehensive record of Ongota. These initiatives aim to ensure that the language is not forgotten and that future generations have access to its linguistic and cultural legacy.
Language revitalization efforts for Ongota have been challenging due to the extremely limited number of speakers and the lack of intergenerational transmission. However, initiatives to raise awareness, support linguistic research, and promote language revitalization have been undertaken. These efforts seek to engage the remaining speakers, empower the community, and encourage the preservation and use of Ongota in cultural events, education, and community activities.
Preserving and revitalizing endangered languages like Ongota is crucial for the diversity of human culture and knowledge. It highlights the importance of safeguarding linguistic heritage and recognizing the intrinsic value of each language in our global tapestry of languages. The survival of Ongota, even in limited form, represents the resilience and dedication of communities and linguists working together to preserve a fragile linguistic heritage.
07. Liki
Liki, also known as Moar, is an incredibly rare Austronesian language that is on the verge of extinction. It is primarily spoken on offshore islands of Papua province, Indonesia. Liki belongs to the wider Austronesian language family, which encompasses numerous languages spread across Southeast Asia and the Pacific.
The Liki language is highly endangered, with only a handful of remaining speakers. The exact number of speakers is uncertain, but it is estimated that there are very few individuals who still have a command of the language. The decline of Liki can be attributed to various factors, including the impact of modernization, cultural assimilation, and the dominance of larger, more widely spoken languages in the region.
The unique linguistic features of Liki have garnered the interest of linguists and researchers. Although there is limited information available on the language, efforts have been made to document its vocabulary, grammar, and phonetics. Linguistic documentation projects aim to create a record of Liki before it disappears entirely, helping to preserve its linguistic legacy for future generations and contributing to the broader understanding of Austronesian languages.
Revitalization efforts for Liki face significant challenges due to its critically endangered status and the dwindling number of speakers. However, there have been initiatives focused on raising awareness about the language and its cultural significance. These efforts aim to empower the Liki community and foster a sense of pride and ownership over their linguistic heritage. Language revitalization programs, documentation projects, and community engagement can play a crucial role in preserving and revitalizing Liki, providing resources and support for the remaining speakers and creating opportunities for intergenerational transmission.
The loss of a language like Liki not only signifies the disappearance of a linguistic system but also represents the erosion of a distinct culture and worldview. Languages are essential repositories of unique cultural knowledge, traditions, and history, and their preservation is vital for maintaining the diversity of human expression. Preserving endangered languages like Liki is a testament to the value we place on linguistic diversity and the importance of protecting the rich tapestry of languages that make up our global heritage.
06. Tanema
Tanema is indeed one of the rarest languages in the world and is on the verge of extinction. It is spoken on the island of Vanikoro, which is part of the easternmost province of the Solomon Islands in the Pacific Ocean.
The Tanema language is critically endangered, with only a single native speaker remaining. This means that the knowledge and fluency of the language are now solely held by one individual. The decline of Tanema can be attributed to a combination of factors, including historical events, cultural assimilation, intermarriage, and the dominance of other languages in the region.
The loss of Tanema represents more than just the disappearance of a linguistic system; it signifies the loss of a distinct cultural heritage and a deep connection to the history and traditions of the community. Languages like Tanema carry within them a wealth of traditional knowledge, oral traditions, and a unique way of perceiving and understanding the world.
Efforts to document and preserve Tanema have been undertaken by linguists and researchers. Linguistic documentation projects aim to record the vocabulary, grammar, and phonetics of the language, creating a comprehensive record of Tanema’s linguistic features. These initiatives are crucial for ensuring that the language is not forgotten and that future generations can access and learn from its linguistic and cultural legacy.
While revitalization efforts for Tanema face significant challenges due to the extremely limited number of speakers, there are still initiatives to raise awareness about the language and its cultural significance. These efforts can help to empower the remaining speaker and the wider community, foster a sense of pride and ownership over their linguistic heritage, and create opportunities for the transmission of Tanema to future generations.
Preserving endangered languages like Tanema is essential for the preservation of global linguistic diversity. It highlights the importance of recognizing and valuing the unique contributions that each language brings to our collective human experience. The survival and revitalization of endangered languages are not only vital for the communities that speak them but also for the enrichment of our global cultural heritage.
05. Njerep
Njerep is indeed considered one of the rarest languages in the world. It is a Mambiloid language that was traditionally spoken in the Adamawa Region of Cameroon, in the central part of the country.
The status of Njerep is classified as essentially extinct, with only four individuals reported to still speak the language at home. The number of speakers has declined drastically over the years, leading to the endangerment and near disappearance of the language. This significant decline can be attributed to various factors, including cultural assimilation, language shift to dominant languages in the region, and socio-economic pressures.
Although the number of speakers is critically low, efforts have been made to collect linguistic data and document the language. Linguists and researchers have compiled word lists and gathered grammatical information from the remaining speakers. However, due to the limited number of speakers and the fragmented nature of the available data, a comprehensive understanding of the Njerep language remains a challenge.
The documentation and preservation of Njerep are essential for ensuring that the language is not forgotten and that future generations have access to its linguistic and cultural heritage. These efforts also contribute to the broader understanding of Mambiloid languages and the linguistic diversity found in the Adamawa Region.
Revitalization of Njerep faces significant challenges due to the critically low number of speakers. However, raising awareness about the language and its cultural significance can play a role in preserving its legacy. Language revitalization programs, community engagement, and initiatives that empower the remaining speakers can foster a sense of pride and encourage the transmission of Njerep to future generations.
The loss of a language like Njerep represents more than the disappearance of a linguistic system; it signifies the erosion of a unique cultural identity, traditional knowledge, and a distinct way of perceiving the world. Preserving endangered languages is crucial for maintaining the rich tapestry of human languages and safeguarding the diversity of human expression and thought.
04. Chemehuevi
The Chemehuevi people are an indigenous group and are considered the southernmost branch of the Southern Paiute Indians. They primarily reside in the Chemehuevi Reservation, located along the Colorado River in San Bernardino County, southeastern California. Additionally, some Chemehuevi individuals can be found residing on other reservations such as Agua Caliente, Cabazon, Colorado River, and Morongo.
The Chemehuevi language, also known as Southern Paiute or Southern Paiute Chemehuevi, belongs to the Numic branch of the Uto-Aztecan language family. It is one of the rarest languages in the world due to its limited number of speakers and its endangered status.
Historically, the Chemehuevi people had a strong connection to their traditional lands, including the desert and riverine areas along the Colorado River. They relied on hunting, gathering, and fishing as primary means of sustenance. However, over time, their way of life faced significant changes due to colonization, settlement, and the imposition of external influences.
As a result of these historical and ongoing pressures, the number of fluent Chemehuevi speakers has dwindled. Efforts have been made to document and preserve the language, with linguists and community members collaborating to compile word lists, grammar resources, and linguistic materials. These documentation projects are vital for preserving the linguistic and cultural heritage of the Chemehuevi people.
In recent years, there have also been initiatives to revitalize the Chemehuevi language. Language revitalization programs, language classes, and cultural events aim to encourage the use and transmission of the language among younger generations. By fostering a sense of pride and cultural identity, these efforts contribute to the preservation and rejuvenation of the Chemehuevi language.
The preservation of the Chemehuevi language is crucial for the continued existence and well-being of the Chemehuevi people. Language is an integral part of cultural identity, and the loss of a language represents the erosion of a distinct worldview, traditional knowledge, and a rich cultural legacy. Efforts to preserve and revitalize endangered languages like Chemehuevi highlight the importance of linguistic diversity and the value of preserving indigenous languages as irreplaceable components of our shared human heritage.
03. Lemerig
Lemerig is indeed one of the rarest languages in the world. It is an Oceanic language that was traditionally spoken on Vanua Lava, an island in the Vanuatu archipelago in the South Pacific.
Sadly, Lemerig is no longer actively spoken, and its usage has significantly declined over the years. Currently, only two remaining speakers of the language are known to live on the northern coast of the island. The decline of Lemerig can be attributed to various factors, including language contact, intermarriage, and the influence of neighboring languages such as Mwotlap and Vera’a.
The loss of Lemerig represents more than the disappearance of a linguistic system; it signifies the erosion of a unique cultural heritage and a way of life. Languages like Lemerig carry within them a wealth of traditional knowledge, oral traditions, and a distinct connection to the land and environment.
Efforts have been made to document and preserve the Lemerig language, recognizing its value as an integral part of Vanuatu’s linguistic and cultural diversity. Linguists and researchers have collected data on Lemerig, including vocabulary, grammar, and recordings of spoken language, in order to create a record of the language before it fades away completely.
Revitalization efforts for Lemerig face significant challenges due to the critically low number of speakers. However, initiatives to raise awareness about the language and its cultural significance can play a role in preserving its legacy. These efforts can involve collaboration with the remaining speakers and the wider community, promoting cultural events, and creating resources for language learning and preservation.
Preserving endangered languages like Lemerig is crucial for maintaining the diversity of human culture and knowledge. Every language represents a unique way of understanding and interacting with the world, and the loss of a language diminishes our collective understanding of humanity’s linguistic and cultural richness.
Efforts to document, preserve, and revitalize endangered languages like Lemerig contribute to the broader recognition and celebration of linguistic diversity. They highlight the importance of valuing and protecting each language as a repository of cultural heritage and as an essential element of our shared human experience.
02. Kawishana
Cawishana is indeed considered one of the rarest languages in the world. It is an Arawakan language that was traditionally spoken in Brazil. However, it is believed to be extinct, as no known speakers have been reported in recent years.
The linguistic classification of Cawishana places it within the Middle Rio Negro group of languages, specifically belonging to the North Amazonian branch. It is closely related to other Arawakan languages in the region, such as Shiriana and Manao.
Information about Cawishana is scarce, and the language remains largely undocumented. Only a few speakers were reported in the 1950s, and since then, there has been no reliable documentation of the language’s usage or speakers. As a result, the knowledge of Cawishana and its linguistic characteristics is extremely limited.
Efforts to document and preserve endangered languages like Cawishana are crucial for maintaining linguistic diversity and preserving cultural heritage. While Cawishana’s status as an extinct language presents challenges in terms of linguistic revitalization, linguistic research and documentation projects can contribute to our understanding of the Arawakan language family and the broader linguistic landscape of the Amazon region.
The loss of a language like Cawishana represents more than just the disappearance of a linguistic system; it signifies the erosion of a distinct cultural identity, traditional knowledge, and a unique way of perceiving and interacting with the world. Preserving and documenting endangered languages like Cawishana is essential for recognizing the value of linguistic diversity and safeguarding the richness of human cultural heritage.
01. Taushiro
Taushiro, also known as Pinche or Pinchi, is indeed considered one of the rarest languages in the world. It is a nearly extinct language spoken in the Peruvian Amazon, in proximity to Ecuador. Taushiro is classified as a possible language isolate, meaning it does not appear to be directly related to any known language family.
The status of Taushiro is critically endangered, with only one known speaker reported by SIL (Summer Institute of Linguistics) in 2000. This single speaker remains among a small ethnic population of 20 individuals. The decline of Taushiro can be attributed to various factors, including cultural assimilation, language shift to more widely spoken languages, and the impact of social and economic changes in the region.
Linguistic documentation of Taushiro was conducted in the mid-1970s by Neftalí Alicea, providing valuable insights into the language’s vocabulary, grammar, and phonetics. These documented resources offer a glimpse into the linguistic characteristics of Taushiro and contribute to the preservation of its linguistic heritage.
Despite its critically endangered status, efforts have been made to raise awareness about Taushiro and its cultural significance. These initiatives aim to empower the remaining speaker and the wider community, fostering a sense of pride and ownership over their linguistic heritage. Language revitalization programs and community engagement can play a crucial role in revitalizing and preserving Taushiro, providing resources and support for the transmission of the language to future generations.
Preserving endangered languages like Taushiro is not only important for the communities that speak them but also for the broader understanding of human linguistic diversity. Each language represents a unique system of communication, cultural knowledge, and a distinct worldview. The preservation and documentation of endangered languages contribute to the recognition and celebration of linguistic diversity and ensure that the invaluable heritage of these languages is not lost forever.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the world is home to numerous rare and endangered languages, each representing a unique linguistic and cultural heritage. Languages such as Chamicuro, Dumi, Ongota, Liki, Tanema, Njerep, Lemerig, Cawishana, and Taushiro face the threat of extinction due to various factors including dwindling numbers of speakers, language shift, cultural assimilation, and social changes.
The loss of these languages signifies more than the disappearance of linguistic systems; it represents the erosion of cultural identities, traditional knowledge, and distinct ways of perceiving and interacting with the world. Preserving and revitalizing endangered languages is crucial for maintaining the diversity of human culture and enriching our collective understanding of the world.
Efforts to document, preserve, and revitalize these rare languages are of utmost importance. Linguists, researchers, and communities play a vital role in gathering linguistic data, creating documentation, and raising awareness about the value and significance of endangered languages. Language revitalization programs, community engagement, and the empowerment of remaining speakers all contribute to the preservation and transmission of linguistic heritage to future generations.
Preserving rare languages not only benefits the communities that speak them but also serves as a testament to the linguistic diversity that is an inherent part of our shared human heritage. Every language represents a unique way of knowing, expressing, and understanding the world. Recognizing and celebrating the rich tapestry of languages ensures the preservation of cultural identities, traditional knowledge systems, and the promotion of inclusivity in our global society.
It is essential that we continue to support efforts to document, preserve, and revitalize endangered languages, respecting and valuing the linguistic diversity that exists among our fellow human beings. Through these collective efforts, we can ensure that rare languages are given the recognition, protection, and opportunity to thrive, contributing to the vibrant tapestry of global linguistic and cultural heritage.
