Cuman refers to a group of Turkic nomadic tribes that historically inhabited the steppes of Central Asia and Eastern Europe. They were known for their horse-riding skills and played a significant role in the political landscape of the region during the Middle Ages. The Cumans were often involved in conflicts and alliances with neighboring powers, including the Kievan Rus and the Mongol Empire. The Cumans spoke the Cuman language, a Turkic language that is now extinct. They were part of the larger Kipchak confederation and contributed to the cultural and linguistic development of the area. Their legacy can still be seen in various place names and historical accounts from the regions they once occupied.