Northern Frisian

The North Frisian language is a minority language spoken in parts of Denmark and Germany. It is part of the larger group of Frisian languages, which also includes West Frisian, East Frisian, and Saterland Frisian. North Frisian is closely related to the other Frisian languages, but is not mutually intelligible with any of them. There are approximately 2,000 speakers of North Frisian, most of whom live on the North Frisian Islands off the coast of Germany. The North Frisian language has three main dialects: Insular North Frisian, which is spoken on the North Frisian Islands; mainland North Frisian, which is spoken in parts of Denmark and Germany; and Southern North Frisian, which is spoken in a small area of Germany. All three dialects are mutually intelligible. The North Frisian language is endangered, with most speakers being over the age of 60. Efforts are being made to revive the language, including the establishment of a North Frisian Academy and the production of a North Frisian dictionary.