SYSTEMIC AND ETHNOCULTURAL POTENTIAL OF ETHNONYMS IN THE EXPLANATORY DICTIONARY AS A BASIS FOR EDUCATIONAL LEXICOGRAPHY

Abstract

The article examines the explanatory dictionary as a source of information for the educational lexicographies of culturally labeled vocabulary. The focus of the description is ethnonyms (names of peoples), which constitute the central component of lexical units with an ethnic component of meaning. Vocabulary with an ethnic component of meaning is defined as lexical units whose meanings contain elements that directly indicate affiliation with a specific ethnic group or its country of residence. This category includes ethnonyms (names of peoples), ethnotoponyms (names of countries), and words derived from them. According to explanatory dictionaries of a universal nature, this vocabulary is characterized by both linguistic-systemic features and significant ethnocultural potential. The analysis demonstrates that such vocabulary holds a unique place within the Russian language system, reflecting not only linguistic (semantic, paradigmatic, and syntagmatic) connections but also serving as a marker of national identity, historical contacts, and social transformations. This potential should be explicitly identified, described, and taken into account when compiling an educational dictionary of vocabulary with an ethnic component of meaning, intended for international students.