Lorrains

Lorrains are the inhabitants or natives of Lorraine, a historic region in northeastern France. The term also designates the cultural and linguistic traditions of that area and, in some contexts, the family of dialects spoken there.

Lorraine lies in the northeast of France and, in contemporary administration, forms part of the Grand Est region. The historic territory traditionally included the departments of Meurthe-et-Moselle, Meuse, Moselle, and Vosges, with major cities such as Nancy and Metz. The region shares borders with Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, and several French regions. Since 2016, Lorraine has been integrated into the Grand Est administrative region, although the label Lorrains continues to identify residents by historic affiliation.

Language in Lorraine shows a mixed heritage. French is the dominant language, but traditional Lorraine dialects (collectively called Lorrain) belong to the Romance family, while parts near the German border traditionally spoke Lorraine Franconian, a Germanic dialect. The Lorrains are associated with a distinct culinary and cultural heritage, including dishes like quiche Lorraine.

Economically, Lorraine has been shaped by mining and industry in the Moselle and Vosges areas, as well as agriculture and crafts. The Lorrains have a historical identity shaped by periods of French centralization and border fluctuations with the Holy Roman Empire and Germany, influencing regional customs, festivals, and architecture. Today, Lorrains are part of the broader French national community while retaining a regional identity.