Laotian

Laotian is a term used in English to describe things associated with Laos, including its people, language, and culture. In English it commonly designates the Lao people, the majority ethnic group in Laos, as well as the Lao language.

The Lao people form the majority of Laos's population and share cultural and historical ties with neighboring Tai-speaking peoples, especially in the Isan region of Thailand. The Lao-speaking community is also present in diaspora communities worldwide, notably in the United States, France, and Australia.

Language: Laotian language, commonly called Lao, is a member of the Tai-Kadai language family. It is written in the Lao script and has several regional dialects; Standard Lao (Lao Loum) is used in education, media, and government. Lao and Thai are closely related, and speakers sometimes understand each other's varieties to some extent.

Culture and religion: Theravada Buddhism is the predominant faith, influencing festivals, architecture, and daily life. Lao culture features traditional music, dance, weaving, and cuisine centered on sticky rice and fresh herbs. Laos's geography—mountains, rivers, and protected areas—shapes social organization and livelihoods.