Auvergnat

Auvergnat can refer to two related things tied to the central French region of Auvergne. First, it is the demonym for a person from Auvergne, a historic and cultural region that is now part of the administrative area of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes. Second, Auvergnat is also the name of the Occitan language variety spoken in the area, one of the dialects that form the Langue d’oc.

Geographically, Auvergnat has been concentrated in the historical homeland around the Massif Central, including parts of the departments of Puy-de-Dôme, Cantal, and Haute-Loire, and nearby areas. Linguistically, Auvergnat is classified as a dialect of Occitan, within the western group that also includes Limousin and Languedocien varieties. It shares features with neighboring Occitan dialects and uses Occitan orthography when written, though there is no single universally adopted standard form.

Today, Auvergnat, like many regional languages of France, faces a decline in daily use in favor of French. Most speakers are older, with revival efforts pursued by cultural associations, local schools, and language initiatives that publish materials, songs, and digital resources. Some municipalities and cultural groups promote Occitan heritage, including Auvergnat toponymy and bilingual signage, as part of broader regional identity efforts.

The term Auvergnat also reflects regional culture and folklore, appearing in music, literature, and traditional festivities associated with Auvergne. The status and vitality of the language vary by locality, with ongoing efforts aimed at preservation and transmission for future generations.