RUSSIAN AND KUMYK ZOOTOPONYMS IN THE STRUCTURAL AND SEMANTIC ASPECT

Abstract

The article presents a comparative analysis of zootoponyms in the Russian and Kumyk languages. Toponyms with zoonymous components occupy an important place among Russian and Kumyk geographical names, what is explained by the longstanding relationship between humans and animals. Toponyms can be considered structurally and semantically. In terms of structure, Russian and Kumyk place names consist of one word, as well as of two or even more. In the Russian language there are both derivative and non-derivative zootoponyms, whereas in the Kumyk language zootoponyms are usually derived. Astionyms, hydronyms and oikonyms are most widely in the Russian language. In the Kumyk language oronyms and oikonyms are more common. The analysis allowed us to conclude, that in the formation of toponyms, the Russian language prefers affixation, and in the Kumyk language, addition is the leading way.