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The article in its original form included audio files pronounced by Diane Snake, one of a few surviving descendants still speaking the language
fluently. Unfortunately, we have not been able to contact the speaker for permission to reprint these audio files. If Mrs. Snake or
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Munsee Delaware Language
Here are 10 phrases in Munsee Delaware, an Algonquian language spoken by Indians who lived
in the New York / Long Island area for thousands of years. The transcription is by John O'Meara, a Canadian linguist who studied the language, made extensive
recordings, and wrote a dictionary
(available from the University of Toronto Press).
How are you today?
Tha ktulamalsi kway kiishkwihk?
What is your name?
Kweek ha ktushiinzi?
It is a nice day today.
Wulahkameew.
You are my friend.
Nii njoosum.
Hello (literally, I'm glad to see you)
Kuwiingu-neewul.
Goodbye.
Laap-uch kuneewul
Will you have lunch with me?
Kata-wiihpoomi laawahkweeke?
This is my father and mother.
Wan ha nooxw waak nguk.