THE SYMBOLIC AND LINGUOCULTURAL MEANING OF TERMS RELATED TO THE FOOT

Abstract

This article explores the symbolic and linguocultural meanings of two Kazakh body-related terms: taban (sole) and baltır (calf). While commonly denoting anatomical parts, these words also convey deeper cultural and cognitive meanings. Drawing on linguistic data, the study examines the historical development and cognitive structure of these terms and their place in the Kazakh national worldview.

The research addresses a gap in Kazakh linguistics, where the cognitive-conceptual structures, semantic fields, and cultural layers of such body-related terms remain underexplored. Thus, this work contributes to the broader anthropocentric approach in cognitive and ethnolinguistics.

The main objective is to analyze leg-part terminology through historical, cognitive, and cultural lenses and to identify the symbolic and metaphorical roles of taban and baltır. This analysis also aims to demonstrate the deep interaction between language and culture.

Methodologically, the study applies a historical-comparative approach alongside cognitive linguistic tools—including metaphor theory, prototypical analysis, frame modeling—and etymological insights.

The results show that taban serves as a linguocultural symbol for stability, labor, and perseverance, while baltır metaphorically conveys meanings related to fatigue, strength, and endurance. These metaphors reflect not only physical experiences but also broader socio-cultural and emotional dimensions within Kazakh conceptual thinking.

In conclusion, the symbolic and cognitive models of these terms underscore their role in representing national identity and values, reinforcing the intrinsic bond between language and culture.

This research contributes to understanding the national conceptosphere from a cognitive-semantics and ethnolinguistic perspective. Its findings have practical value for further studies in ethnolinguistics, cultural linguistics, language teaching, and translation.