Gnomish Language

The Gnome Language, which uses the Dwarven script, is renowned for its technical treatises and its catalogs of knowledge about the natural world. Human herbalists, naturalists, and engineers commonly learn Gnome in order to read the best books on their topics of study.

Deep Gnome (svirfneblin)
Automatic Languages: Gnome, Undercommon.
Bonus Languages: Any (other than secret languages, such as Druidic).

Svirfneblin speak Gnome, Undercommon, and whatever tongue is used by those on the surface of their region. Those who deal with outsiders often pick up a bit of Common as well. Given the nature of their closest neighbors in the Underdark, it’s not uncommon for deep gnome linguists to also learn languages like Draconic, Dwarven, Elven, Illuskan, and Terran.

All deep gnome characters are literate except for barbarians.

Forest Gnome
Automatic Languages: Gnome, Common.
Bonus Languages: Any (other than secret languages, such as Druidic).

Forest gnomes speak Common, Gnome, and Sylvan. If they pick up an additional language, it’s often Elven, but it could just as well be Halfling, Treant, or the human language of the surrounding region. Those forest gnomes who fight to defend their homes sometimes pick up a bit of Draconic, Goblin, or Orc too, just so they can converse with their attackers and—if possible—spy on them. Forest gnomes have a special ability to speak with animals at will. They make good use of this talent, persuading forest animals to observe intruders and report any trouble in the woodlands. All forest gnome characters are literate, except for barbarians. The next forest gnome barbarian one meets is likely to be the first and may well be the last.

Rock Gnome
Automatic Languages: Gnome, Common.
Bonus Languages: Any (other than secret languages, such as Druidic).

Rock gnomes normally speak Gnome and Common, as well as whatever language is predominant in their home region. They often pick up Dwarven and Sylvan because they live in areas favored by these races. Additionally, they regularly come into contact with those who speak Chondathan, Draconic, Goblin, Illuskan, and Terran, although this isn’t always under the best of circumstances.

All rock gnomes are literate, except for barbarians.