Kabardian

Kabardian, also called Kabardian Circassian, is a Northwest Caucasian language spoken by the Kabardian people in the North Caucasus. It is primarily used in the Russian Federation, especially in the Kabardino-Balkar Republic, with smaller communities in neighboring regions and in diaspora communities abroad.

Linguistic classification: Kabardian belongs to the Circassian branch of the Northwest Caucasian language family and is closely related to Adyghe; together, Kabardian and Adyghe form the Circassian subgroup.

Script and standardization: In Russia, Kabardian is written using a Cyrillic alphabet. A standardized orthography has been developed for education, media, and literature.

Dialects and usage: The language has several dialects; standard literary Kabardian is based largely on central varieties. Kabardian remains a living language in everyday speech, schooling, radio and television programs, and cultural activities, with ongoing efforts to preserve and promote it.

Historical and cultural notes: The name derives from the Kabardian people, also known as Cherkess; the language is an integral part of Kabardian identity within the broader Circassian cultural region.