Yenish

Yenish is a Germanisch language spoken by the Yenish people, an ethnic minority in Central Europe. It originated in the 18th and 19th centuries as a cant or secret language used by itinerant traders, entertainers, and laborers. Yenish is not a fully developed language in the linguistic sense, but rather a coded form of German with a significant vocabulary derived from Romani and Yiddish. It exhibits considerable regional variation and is not standardized.

The Yenish people, also known as Yenish folk, are a distinct group with a history of nomadic or semi-nomadic lifestyles. They are not to be confused with the Romani people, although there have been historical interactions and cultural exchanges. The Yenish language served as a means of maintaining group identity and facilitating communication within their communities, often in contexts where they wished to exclude outsiders.

Today, the use of Yenish has declined significantly. While some older generations may still speak it, it is largely being replaced by standard German or other regional dialects. Efforts to preserve the language are limited, and its future is uncertain. The vocabulary of Yenish includes specific terms for trades, social interactions, and everyday objects, often replacing standard German words with more obscure or coded alternatives. The grammatical structure generally follows that of the surrounding German dialects.