Karen, Geko

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A language of Myanmar

ISO 639-3
ghk
Alternate Names
Gaikho, Gekho, Gek’o, Ghekhol, Ghekhu, Gheko, Kakhau, Kayan, Kayan Kakhau, Kekaungdu, Kekhong, Keku, Yathu Gekho
Population

17,000 (Manson 2010). Very few monolinguals.

Location

North Kayin State, Thandaunggyi township; south Shan State, Pekon township; Mandalay Division, Yamethin District; Bago Division, Toungoo district.

Language Maps
Language Status

6a (Vigorous).

Classification
Sino-Tibetan, Tibeto-Burman, Karenic, Central
Dialects

Geker, Gekho, Thaidai (Htideh).

Typology

SVO

Language Use

Vigorous. All domains. All ages. Positive attitudes. Baptists also use S’gaw Karen [ksw]; others also use Burmese [mya].

Language Resources
OLAC resources in and about Karen, Geko
Writing
Unwritten.
Other Comments

Geko Karen is often considered a sub-variety or clan of Kayan [pdu]. Geko Karen and Geba Karen [kvq] are grouped together in the local Baptist Association administration and are often considered to be the same language (Geko-Geba), although they are distinct. Christian.