Alternate Names: Shoshone
Dialects: Gosiute (Goshute), Northern Shoshoni, Western Shoshoni. Wind River Shoshoni is a subdialect of Northern Shoshoni, spoken at Wind River Reservation. Reportedly similar to Comanche , and Timbisha ,, which are not inherently intelligible of Shoshoni.
Genealogy:
Demographics: 1,000 (Golla 2007). Also 1,000 speakers who are not fluent (Golla 2007). Ethnic population: 7,000 (1977 SIL).
Language Use: Strong interest in revitalization but efforts are scattered with little coordination (Golla 2007). Mostly adults 50 and older but a few children learn the language as L1 in Duck Valley and Gusiute communities. Also use English [eng].
Language Development: Idaho State University offers a 2-year language program (Golla 2007). Literacy is increasing. Dictionary. Bible portions: 1986.
Writing System: Latin
Nation of Origin: United States