The primary language used in Amish homes and communities is Pennsylvania German, also known as Pennsylvania Dutch. This is a dialect of West Central German that has evolved in America since the 17th and 18th centuries. As an example, a common greeting would be “Wie geht’s?” meaning “How are you?”.
The continued use of Pennsylvania German preserves cultural identity and reinforces community bonds within Amish society. It serves as a barrier against outside influences and helps to maintain traditional values. The language’s historical context reveals migration patterns and the adaptation of a European dialect to a new world.
