TRACING THE ETYMOLOGY AND ORIGINS OF A CONTEMPORARY URBAN DIALECT

Abstract

Kiezdeutsch is a contemporary linguistic variety that has emerged in multilingual and multicultural urban neighborhoods in Germany, particularly in districts of Berlin characterized by high levels of migration and social diversity. More than just a dialect, Kiezdeutsch represents a dynamic sociolect shaped by the everyday interactions of youth from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. This study explores the etymology and historical development of Kiezdeutsch, situating it within the broader context of Germany’s shifting urban landscapes and the sociopolitical processes of immigration and integration. The research focuses on how demographic changes, urbanization, and educational environments have contributed to the evolution of Kiezdeutsch as a distinct urban vernacular. By combining structural features of Standard German with influences from languages such as Turkish, Arabic, and Kurdish, Kiezdeutsch illustrates the fluidity of language in contact zones and reflects the hybrid identities of its speakers.  Through a multidisciplinary approach, the research provides insight into how language adapts and transforms in response to social realities, ultimately positioning Kiezdeutsch as a significant phenomenon in contemporary sociolinguistics.