Mayasoundex: A Phonetically Grounded Algorithm for Information Retrieval in the Maya Language

This paper introduces Mayasoundex, a phonetically grounded algorithm tailored for information retrieval in the Maya language. Mayasoundex utilizes phonetic principles to generate consistent codes for words with similar sounds, promoting phonetic similarity in information retrieval tasks. Drawing upon the distinctive phonological characteristics of the Maya language, the algorithm offers a robust approach to indexing and searching linguistic data. The proposed method addresses challenges posed by the oral tradition and the recent adoption of Latin characters in Maya writing, providing a versatile solution for preserving and promoting the Maya language through advanced information retrieval technologies. The Mayasoundex algorithm is made publicly accessible through a Colab Notebook, facilitating broader utilization and fostering future developments in this field.