Linking language and the environment: the case of Norf’k and Norfolk Island

This paper investigates a range of structural and lexical aspects of the Pitkern–Norf’k language, which characterize it typologically as an ‘ecologically embedded’ contact language. Lexical items spanning various lexical fields are employed to illustrate key criteria in the relationship between place-knowledge and linguistic knowledge. It is claimed that ecolinguistics needs to supplement philosophical reflection and language critique with a staunchly empirical approach.