Abstract
Based upon a semantic analysis of Mongolian oikonyms and anoikonyms, this paper offers an overview of the most important thematic areas in Mongolian proper nouns. Taking into account the context of the use of proper nouns in communication, the method of giving names to places, traditions and taboos connected to proper names, this study depicts some of the ways in which Mongolian nomads show their understanding of the world, values and traditional ideas about the world.
This study predominantly explores the motivation for the process of naming prominent geographical features. Mongolian toponyms try to depict as accurately as possible the shape, colour and position of a particular geographical form.
That is why the repertoire of the Mongolian language in providing linguistic resources suitable for the process of naming is so extensive. The Mongolian language can depict the many different shapes of these landmarks.
These linguistic resources include du’rsleh u’g [iconopoeic words], which help to build realistic plastic images of orographic formations or bodies of water.