Cherokee officials announce new mobile dictionary app

This week, Cherokee families can download a new app designed to help them learn, practice and preserve their traditional language.

Tribal news outlet Andadisgoi reports that Cherokee leaders and language speakers unveiled the Cherokee Language Dictionary app, with representatives of Kiwa Digital Ltd.

The mobile app packs translations of more than 6,000 Cherokee words, as well as audio recordings, grammar notes and phonetics.

“Every Cherokee family, no matter where they live, can now carry this resource in their pocket,” Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. was quoted as having said at an event in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. “This app represents our sovereignty, our knowledge, and our commitment to keeping the Cherokee language strong for generations to come.”

Kiwa Digital Ltd. specializes in language and dictionary app creation, with a focus on endangered Indigenous languages. The Cherokee Language Dictionary App is available for iPhone and Android phones.

“Our goal is to get at least 25,000 to 50,000 words on the app in order to have a more comprehensive overview of the language,” said Howard Paden, executive director of the Cherokee Language Department.