Waimiri-Atroarí language

Atruahí
Waimiri-Atroarí
Native toBrazil
Ethnicity2,009 (2018, PWA)
Native speakers
930 (2001)
Cariban
Dialects
  • Atruahi
  • Waimirí
  • Jawaperi
Language codes
ISO 639-3atr
Glottologwaim1253
ELPWaimirí-Atroarí
Waimirí-Atroarí is classified as Vulnerable by the UNESCO Atlas of the World's Languages in Danger

The Waimiri Atroari language is spoken by the Waimiri Atroari people. The current population is 2,009 (PWA, 2018), and they have 19 villages spread along the rivers of Camanau/Curiau, Alalaii, Jauaperi, and Rio Branquinho. These are located in the northern part of the State of Amazonas, and the southern part of the State of Roraima. The people call themselves Kinja and call their language Kinja Iara (meaning 'people's language') (Do Vale). The language has many other names such as, Atroahy, Atroahí, Atroarí, Atroaí, Atrowari, Atruahi, Atruahí, Ki'nya, Krishaná, Waimirí, Waimirí-atroarí, Yawaperí (Glottolog). This language seems to have a high transmission as it is spoken by all members of the community and is the main language used for reading and writing (Do Vale).