Final answer:
When a language is classified as endangered, it means that the language is at risk of dying out and no longer being spoken. Factors like a small number of speakers or a declining population can contribute to language endangerment. However, efforts can be made to revitalize and preserve endangered languages through language revitalization programs.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a language is classified as "endangered," it means that the language is at risk of dying out and no longer being spoken by any living person. This classification is typically based on factors such as a small number of speakers, a declining population, or the loss of habitat for the language.
Endangerment can occur due to historical factors like colonialism and imperialism, which suppressed indigenous languages and cultures. Additionally, globalization and the dominance of more widely spoken languages can contribute to language endangerment. It's important to note that while a language may be considered 'dead' or no longer spoken, efforts can be made to revitalize and preserve it through language revitalization programs.