The Tangut language is a now-extinct Sino-Tibetan language that was spoken by the Tangut people in the historical region of Xixia, located in present-day northwestern China. It was primarily used during the 11th to 13th centuries when the Tangut established their own empire. The language is known for its complex phonetics and unique script, which consists of thousands of characters. Tangut is significant for its contributions to the study of historical linguistics and the understanding of the cultural exchanges along the Silk Road. The language has been partially preserved in various texts, including religious and administrative documents, providing valuable insights into the Tangut civilization and its interactions with neighboring cultures.