Linguogeographical Study of the Origin of the Toponym “Qarqara/Qarqaraly”

Qarqara/Qarqaraly are among the distinctive toponyms found across various regions of Kazakhstan. The origin and meaning of the term “Qarqaraly” have been interpreted in multiple ways in existing literature: as the name of a crane species, a traditional Kazakh object placed on a camel, an element of traditional Kazakh women’s headwear, or as being related to the word “mountain” in various languages. Although numerous studies have examined this name from a toponymic perspective, none have provided a definitive explanation of its meaning. Moreover, many studies exhibit methodological limitations due to insufficient consideration of geographical factors, and some interpretations have inadvertently distorted the sacred and historical significance of the name “Qarqaraly”. This study examines the toponym “Qarqaraly” from the perspective of the acoustic characteristics of natural geographical phenomena and analyzes how such sound-related perceptions influenced the formation of place names within linguistic consciousness. In addition, cognate toponyms related to the оnym were identified in 15 countries worldwide, providing evidence for its preservation since ancient times. A distribution map of place names associated with the root “Qarqara” was compiled, and their spatial patterns and linguogeographical significance were interpreted using cartographic methods. The results of the study contribute to and expand the theoretical foundations of onomastics and linguogeography, while also helping to explain the patterns underlying the formation of geographical names. They may be used in the improvement of electronic databases of Kazakhstan’s toponyms, the development of historical-geographical maps, and the systematization of geographical names. Furthermore, the research materials can be applied in higher education for teaching courses in onomastics, linguogeography, and local history studies, as well as in the development of specialized courses and educational materials. 

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