East Germanic refers to a branch of the Germanic languages that was historically spoken in parts of Eastern Europe. This group includes languages such as Gothic, Vandalic, and Burgundian, which are now mostly extinct. The East Germanic tribes, including the Goths, played a significant role in the migrations and transformations of Europe during the early Middle Ages.
The East Germanic languages are distinct from the West Germanic and North Germanic branches. While they share common roots with these other Germanic languages, their development diverged due to geographical and cultural factors. Today, the study of East Germanic languages provides valuable insights into the history and evolution of the Germanic peoples.