Language NameWarao
User PopulationFew speakers (Forte 1990). Ethnic population: 5,000 (2000 J. Forte).
LocationBarima-Waini, Pomeroon-Supenaam, and Essequibo Islands-West Demerara regions: near the coast, mixed with Arawak [ake] and Carib [car] speakers.
Alternate NamesGuarao, Guarauno, Warau, Warrau
Language UseThose who live in closer contact to coastal society are more acculturated than those residing close to the border areas with Venezuela and, therefore, face more threat of the loss of their native language. But there is no immediate threat of extinction (Crevels 2007). Older adults only. Shifted to Guyanese English Creole [gyn].
