Languedocian

Languedocian, also called Lengadocian in Occitan, is a dialect of the Occitan language spoken in the historic Languedoc region of southern France. The term Languedocian can also refer to a person from Languedoc, i.e., a member of the regional community and its cultural heritage.

As a dialect, Languedocian is part of Occitan, the langue d’oc, a Romance language spoken across southern France and neighboring areas. It forms part of the broader Occitan linguistic continuum, with close ties to other dialect groups such as Provençal and Gascon. Traditionally spoken in the Languedoc area and surrounding zones, Languedocian exhibits phonological and lexical traits that distinguish it from other Occitan varieties, while remaining largely mutually intelligible.

In modern times, Occitan languages, including Languedocian, have experienced a decline in everyday use under the influence of French. Revival and maintenance efforts are pursued by cultural associations, regional programs, and educational initiatives, sometimes with support from institutions dedicated to Occitan culture, such as the Institut d'Estudis Occitans. Languedocian remains a core element of regional identity and is represented in literature, music, folklore, and local media.

There is no single standardized form of Languedocian; it exists in multiple local varieties and orthographic practices. In scholarly and cultural contexts, the term highlights both the linguistic variety and the regional community that preserves and promotes Languedocian heritage.