Definition

Noun: 1. The Turkic language spoken by the Kirghiz people: This refers to the specific language, also commonly known as Kyrgyz, belonging to the Kipchak branch of the Turkic language family. 2. A member of the Kirghiz people: This refers to an individual belonging to a traditionally nomadic Turkic-speaking people primarily inhabiting Kyrgyzstan and parts of Central Asia.

Usage Examples

• As a language (uncountable noun):
  • She is conducting linguistic research on Khirghiz.
  • The poem was originally written in Khirghiz.
• As a person (countable noun):
  • My guide in Bishkek was a Khirghiz.
  • Several Khirghiz participated in the cultural festival.

Advanced Usage

• The term Khirghiz is an older or alternative transliteration from Russian. The more common and contemporary English spelling is Kyrgyz.
• When referring to the people or language collectively, the terms the Kirghiz or the Kyrgyz are used.
  • The Kirghiz have a rich tradition of oral epic poetry.

Variants and Related Words

• Kyrgyz (noun): The modern, standardized spelling for both the people and the language.
• Kirghiz (adjective): Used to describe something pertaining to the Kirghiz people or their language (e.g., , ). The modern adjectival form is Kyrgyz.
• Kyrgyzstan (noun): The independent country where the Kyrgyz people are the titular nation.

Synonyms

• For the person: Kyrgyz.
• For the language: Kyrgyz language.

Notes on Meaning

The two primary meanings are intrinsically linked: one denotes the ethnic/cultural group (the people), and the other denotes their primary means of communication (the language). The context of the sentence usually makes it clear which meaning is intended.

Noun

1. the Turkic language spoken by the Kirghiz
2. a member of a people of Turkic speech and Mongolian race inhabiting vast regions of central Siberia