Kurdishlanguage

Kurdish language, or Kurdish, refers to a group of related Northwestern Iranian languages spoken by the Kurdish people across a broad region known as Kurdistan, which includes parts of Turkey, Iran, Iraq, and Syria, as well as diaspora communities in Europe, the Caucasus, and the Americas. Estimates of total speakers typically fall in the range of roughly 25 to 35 million. The language exists in several primary varieties with substantial differences in vocabulary, pronunciation, and grammar.

The two largest varieties are Kurmanji (Northern Kurdish) and Sorani (Central Kurdish). Zazaki and Gorani are often treated as separate languages within the broader Kurdish family or as distinct dialect continua. These varieties are not always mutually intelligible, reflecting historical and regional separation, political boundaries, and cultural development.

Writing systems differ by region and variety. Kurmanji is commonly written with a Latin-based alphabet in Turkey, Syria, and among many diaspora communities. Sorani is typically written in an Arabic-based script in Iran and Iraq. Some communities and historical periods have used Cyrillic or other scripts. There is no single nationwide Kurdish standard, and education, media, and literature are shaped by national and regional policies in each country.

Historically, Kurdish has a rich literary and poetic tradition, with early works such as Mem and Zin illustrating classical Kurdish culture. Modern standardization and literary production intensified in the 20th century. In contemporary politics, Kurdish languages enjoy formal recognition in parts of Iraq (notably the Kurdistan Region) and use in education and media varies in Turkey, Iran, and Syria. The Kurdish language also maintains a significant presence in global media, academia, and the Kurdish diaspora.