The Coptic language is the latest stage of the ancient Egyptian language, primarily used by the Coptic Orthodox Church and its followers. It evolved from the Demotic script and incorporates elements from the Greek alphabet, making it unique among Afro-Asiatic languages. Coptic was widely spoken in Egypt until the 17th century but has since become mostly a liturgical language. Today, it is studied by scholars and used in religious contexts, preserving the rich cultural heritage of ancient Egypt and its Christian traditions.