Explanation
A language no longer regularly acquired by children and therefore at risk of losing intergenerational transmission. Shifts attention from speaker numbers to transmission: a language lives not only in present voices but in future possibilities for conversation.
Example
Many older speakers may remain even though few children learn the language in daily life.
Counterexample
A mere label without the described formal, cultural or conceptual movement.
Distinction
Distinguish from Sprachtod; the neighbour remains connected as a crossway.
Effect on thought and perception
Shifts attention from speaker numbers to transmission: a language lives not only in present voices but in future possibilities for conversation.
Resonance
Shifts attention from speaker numbers to transmission: a language lives not only in present voices but in future possibilities for conversation.
Cite this entry
Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Moribund language“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-DEP5-0014. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-DEP5-0014The address remains stable; editorial content may evolve. A verified modification date per entry is not yet available. Include your access date for precise references.