Tlingit language changing as new words coined for modern era

JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) _ The Tlingit language is still changing, as new words are coined for the modern, technological age.

The Capital City Weekly reports that newly coined words need to be spread and catch on to be widely used.

Often, words are created out of necessity.

Hans Chester, an elementary teacher in Juneau, said he has come up with words for recess, reading and daily schedule. He said he also likes to translate pop songs into the Alaska Native language.

“Sometimes there aren’t words for the music I like to listen to,’’ he said.

Florence Marks Sheakley, a fluent Tlingit speaker who atte...