The Elvish language of the Sindar (Grey Elves) of Beleriand, which became the common Elvish tongue of Middle-earth after the returning Noldor adopted it for daily use. By the Third Age, Sindarin is the living Elvish language, used in names, songs, and communication among the Elves who remain. Tolkien based Sindarin on Welsh, giving it a similar phonetic character. Most Elvish names encountered in The Lord of the Rings are Sindarin.