Communities developing resources and competencies for using their languages
Foundational understanding for language development work of all kinds
Publications, fonts and computer tools for language development, translation and research
SIL offers training in disciplines relevant to sustainable language development.
Over 7,000 languages are spoken or signed. CLICK for map of world languages & regional websites.
SIL's commitment to see people flourishing using the languages they value most.
It is the fate of those who toil at the lower employments of life… to be exposed to censure without hope of praise… Among these unhappy mortals is the writer of dictionaries… Every other author may aspire to praise; the lexicographer can only hope to escape reproach.
—Samuel Johnson (Dictionary of the English language, 1755)
Lexicography is the art and science of making dictionaries.
Video-An informal Introduction to LexicographyHelp us develop and publish minority language dictionaries online on Webonary.org: