Nahuan

Nahuan, or Nahuan languages, is a sub-branch of the Uto-Aztecan language family that comprises the Nahuatl languages and their closest relatives, notably Pipil (Náhuatl of El Salvador) and other Náhuatl varieties. The term Nahuan is used in linguistic classifications to denote this branch, which forms part of the southern (Aztecan) subdivision of Uto-Aztecan.

Internal classification among Nahuan languages is debated. The largest constituent is Nahuatl, with numerous local varieties spoken across central Mexico. Pipil is spoken in El Salvador, with some use extending into parts of Guatemala. Some scholars also include additional varieties in Guatemala within Nahuan. The languages share core features such as polysynthetic verb morphology, agglutinative affixation, and vowel-rich phonologies, along with typological similarities in their syntax and phonology.

Geographic distribution and status: Historically centered in central Mexico, Nahuan languages are still spoken across central and southern regions of Mexico. Number of speakers varies by language; Nahuatl varieties generally support larger communities, while several other Nahuan languages are endangered or have only small speaker populations. Pipil remains active in El Salvador, with ongoing revitalization efforts.

Orthography and influence: Nahuan languages were soon written with Latin script after Spanish contact. Classical Nahuatl contributed to colonial writings and remains a focus of linguistic study. In recent decades, language revitalization programs, bilingual education, and media initiatives have sought to preserve and promote Nahuan languages and their cultural heritage.