The Change in Meaning and Features of the Use of the Word “Bai” in Kazakh Personal Names in the Historical and Cultural Context

Abstract

The article explores the etymology of the word “bai” and its meaning in Turkic languages, examining its usage across contexts. Evidence shows that since ancient times, “bai” has been consistently incorporated into Kazakh male personal names, becoming a national model of anthroponymy. In Kazakh, “bai” may appear as the first component of a name (Baizhіgіt, Baizhan, Baimyrza) or the second component (Serіkbay, Berіkbay, Burabay), with the latter being more prevalent. The study further analyzes the historical and cultural evolution of the meaning of “bai” in personal names and its usage patterns. Findings indicate that from the 1920s-1930s, “bai” acquired a negative connotation under the influence of Soviet ideology and literature, as evidenced in works by prominent Kazakh writers. Based on extensive linguistic data, the article demonstrates that the practice of forming names with a negative connotation using the second component “bai” persists today, with social, psychological, literary, and linguistic factors contributing to its continuation. Considering the implications of this phenomenon and its role in the socio-cultural life of the Kazakh nation, the study draws conclusions grounded in the analyzed linguistic material.

Keywords: Kazakh personal names, word semantics, lexicon, negative connotation, bai, “qazaqbai”.