Eastern Iranian refers to a branch of the Iranian languages, which are part of the larger Indo-Iranian language family. This group includes languages spoken primarily in eastern regions of Iran, Afghanistan, and parts of Central Asia. Notable languages in this category include Pashto, Balochi, and Tajik. These languages share common linguistic features and historical roots, but they also exhibit significant regional variations. Eastern Iranian languages are important for understanding the cultural and historical development of the Iranian plateau and surrounding areas, reflecting the diverse ethnic groups and their interactions over time.