Lakota Language Translator 🦅

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This translator is provided for educational purposes and cultural appreciation.

For the most accurate translations, please consult native Lakota speakers or qualified language experts.

About the Lakota Language (Lakȟótiyapi)

Lakota (Lakȟótiyapi) is the language of the Lakota people, one of the three main Native American tribes of the Great Plains. It is a living language that carries the rich cultural heritage, wisdom, and worldview of the Lakota people.

Key Features:

  • Sacred Language: Lakota is more than just a means of communication; it embodies spiritual and cultural concepts central to Lakota life.
  • Verb-Final Structure: Unlike English, Lakota typically places verbs at the end of sentences.
  • Gender-Specific Speech: Some words and expressions vary depending on the speaker's gender.
  • Rich Vocabulary: Contains unique words for concepts that may require multiple words to express in English.

Common Expressions:

Hello
Háu (formal) / Hé (informal)
[how] / [hey]
Thank you
Pilámayaye (said by men) / Pilámaya (said by women)
[pee-lah-mah-yah-yeh] / [pee-lah-mah-yah]
Good day
Aŋpétu wašté
[ahn-peh-tu wash-teh]
See you later
Tókša akhé waŋčhíyaŋkiŋ kte
[toe-kshah ah-keh wahn-chee-yahn-keen k-teh]

Basic Lakota Vocabulary:

English Lakota Pronunciation
Water Mní [muh-nee]
Sun Wí [wee]
Earth/Land Makȟá [mah-kah]
Buffalo Tȟatȟáŋka [tah-tahn-ka]
Eagle Waŋblí [wahn-blee]
Horse Šúŋkawakȟáŋ [shoon-ka-wah-kahn]
Friend Kȟolá [koh-lah]
Love Tȟéȟila [tay-hee-lah]

Language Revitalization

The Lakota language is considered endangered, with fewer than 2,000 fluent speakers remaining. Various revitalization efforts are underway in Lakota communities to preserve this important cultural heritage. Learning even a few words helps support these efforts and honors the resilience of the Lakota people.

Learn more about language preservation at lakhota.org