Rethinking Bezdónė, Dari̇̀nė, and Ìlma: Challenging Current Etymologies, Uncovering Cognitive Motivations

Abstract

The article traces the historical development of Lithuanian onomastic studies, highlighting the importance of balancing tradition and innovation in the field. In Lithuania, onomastic studies traditionally adhered to the approach emphasising the etymological and derivational analysis of proper names, which was later expanded with fundamental works on the structural-grammatical and semantic classification of hydronyms. Currently, a new wave of onomasticians seeks to depart from traditional methods, exploring toponyms within the framework of Cognitive Semantics. Taking one potamonym, oikonym, and limnonym currently officially functioning within the borders of Vilnius County, this paper, using a multidisciplinary approach integrating linguistic analysis, historical research, and cultural studies, aims to illustrate how blending traditional and innovative approaches clarifies established etymologies and explains the origins, motivations, and meanings behind toponyms.