ATLAS OF LANGUAGE

AT-DEP6-0016 · ATLAS 251

Dead language

A metaphorical label for a language without a native everyday speech community that may still be read, learned or used ritually.

Explanation

A metaphorical label for a language without a native everyday speech community that may still be read, learned or used ritually. Questions the life metaphor of language: absence of native transmission does not mean lack of effect, memory or change.

Example

Latin lacks an everyday native community yet continues to act in scholarship, law and liturgy.

Counterexample

A mere label without the described formal, cultural or conceptual movement.

Distinction

Distinguish from Moribunde Sprache; the neighbour remains connected as a crossway.

Effect on thought and perception

Questions the life metaphor of language: absence of native transmission does not mean lack of effect, memory or change.

Resonance

Questions the life metaphor of language: absence of native transmission does not mean lack of effect, memory or change.

Cite this entry

Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Dead language“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-DEP6-0016. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-DEP6-0016

https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-DEP6-0016

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