Research

Summary

The Development of Onomastics in Lithuania: From Tradition to Modernity

The paper examines the evolution of Lithuanian onomastics, from its origins to the present day. Rooted in the pioneering work of linguist Kazimieras Būga, Lithuanian onomastics has been instrumental in understanding personal and place names, particularly hydronyms and anthroponyms. Over time, other scholars have advanced the field through etymological and derivational analysis, with Aleksandras Vanagas introducing a shift toward semantic and motivational approaches. Recent developments, especially the adoption of Cognitive Linguistics, reflect a growing interest in the semantics and cultural motivations behind proper names. The study highlights key periods, global significance, and emerging trends, balancing tradition with innovation.