The Hmong language is complex and tonal, even though words in Hmong are generally monosyllabic. The Hmong did not have a written language until missionaries in Laos introduced the Romanized Popular Alphabet(RPA) in 1953.

The last consonant in a word will determine the tone on which the preceding vowel is produced. This ending tone also often determines the meaning of the word. The consonants and their related tones are as follows:

b high tone
j high falling tone
v mid rising tone
s mid-low tone
g low glottalized tone
d low rising tone




Here are some examples:


paj ntaub (Flower Cloth)
The Hmong are known for their fine needlework. Originally, this needlework was observable as geometric shapes embroidered onto the backs of shirts, funeral garments for burials and baby carriers. They have also embroidered detailed folk stories and reports of other historically significant events onto cloth.

(Listen to the pronunciation.)


Mej koob
A marriage broker or negotiator in the traditional Hmong wedding.
(Listen to the pronunciation.)