The dwarves spoke several languages but in present day they are no longer spoken, and only a few phrases remain in common usage. Some of the words have roots which predate the time when dwarves made contact with elves or humans. Dwarves also invented the "common tongue" in order to trade with each other. In present day it is exceptionally rare for someone to not be fluent in the common tongue. However the dwarves of Kal-Sharok have a regional dialect which draws more on an older manner of speech because of their significantly less contact and interaction with the surface.