The Names of Leather and Leather Products in the Kalmyk Language (Ethno-Linguistic aspect)

Abstract

The article examines the vocabulary naming objects made of animal leather, the vocabulary which has evolved for thousands of years and is reflected in the heroic epic Dzhangar as well as in Kalmyk proverbs, sayings, riddles and idioms. It is actively used in the everyday Kalmyk language and includes the names of domestic animals (horses, camels, sheep, pigs) and wild beasts. The key word ‘arsn’ (skin) has several synonyms very close in meaning. The examples of the vocabulary usage show that leather goods have always been highly valued among Mongolian peoples. In many respects, the fields where leather was used depended on quality of its processing. More important items necessary for household purposes were made of cattle skin. A soft fine skin was used for manufacturing expensive items, in particular souvenirs and gifts. The research has proved that the skin has always been in demand. However, a significant part of the vocabulary has become passive owing to change in production of leather goods and in technology of leather processing. The study allowed for determining which part of the thematic vocabulary has been irretrievably lost and which is still used in the modern Kalmyk language.