Khazaddûl

Khazaddûl is the name of the Dwarvish language in J.R.R. Tolkien's Legendarium. It is also referred to as Khuzdul. This ancient tongue was spoken by the Dwarves, a race known for their resilience, craftsmanship, and deep connection to the earth. Tolkien, a philologist, created Khazaddûl as a fully developed language, complete with its own grammar and vocabulary, though much of it remains a mystery to the readers.

The language is characterized by its harsh, guttural sounds, reflecting the Dwarves' stony origins and their underground dwellings. Khazaddûl was rarely spoken in public by the Dwarves, who generally preferred the Common Tongue (Westron) for everyday interactions. Instead, it was primarily used for secret names, oaths, and inscriptions on ancient artifacts and tomb doors, such as the famous Doors of Durin between the realms of Khazad-dûm.

The word "Khazaddûl" itself is a Khuzdul word, meaning "Dwarvish-tongue." The exact etymology and full extent of the language's lexicon are not detailed in Tolkien's published works. However, scholars and fans have extensively studied the few known words and phrases to infer its structure and meaning. The limited nature of Khazaddûl in the texts serves to enhance the mystique and ancient nature of the Dwarven race, making their language a symbol of their enduring legacy and hidden knowledge.