Rowl

Rowl is a dialect of the Finnish language spoken in Satakunta region, specifically in the towns of Pori and Rauma. It is known for its distinct grammar and vocabulary, which are influenced by the region's history and geography.

The name "rowl" is often attributed to a occupation of Swedish and Danes who were " rolnings" turned rowl in the 18th century. Their Scandinavian dialect incorporated into the rural region's Finnish language. Rowl became a distinct dialect, with unique features such as simplified consonant and vowel systems.

One key feature of rowl is its use of suffixes to indicate grammatical cases. For example, the word "hen" (a person) becomes "hennä" when in the nominative case and "hennässä" when in the genitive case. This makes rowl distinct from Standard Finnish, which uses a more complex system of cases.

Rowl has been an important part of local identity in Satakunta region, particularly in relation to cultural and historical heritage. The dialect has also influenced local arts and traditions, such as music and folk dance. However, as Finnish education has moved towards standardization, rowl has faced decline, particularly among younger generations.

Efforts have been made to preserve and document rowl, including linguistic studies and local workshops. These initiatives aim to promote awareness and understanding of this unique dialect and its significance within the region. Nonetheless, the status of rowl remains uncertain, reflecting broader trends of language shift in a rapidly modernizing society.