Naming the Land: A Linguistic Exploration of Khasi Toponyms as Eco-Cultural Markers

Toponymy is a subfield within linguistics that examines the origins, meanings, and cultural significance of geographic identifiers.This paper investigates the ecological and cultural significance of Khasi toponyms, exploring how traditional place names encode essential environmental knowledge.By examining the meanings behind these names and their relationship to local ecological systems, this study highlights the role of toponyms as key markers of the Khasi people's deep connection to their environment.The research utilises qualitative methods to explore how place names are closely tied to cultural identity, environmental stewardship, and ecological practices.Findings reveal that Khasi toponyms serve not only as geographical markers but as repositories of ecological wisdom, offering insights into the landscapes, natural resources, and cultural beliefs of the Khasi community.Furthermore, the paper explores the ongoing threat to these toponyms caused by language shift, globalisation, and urbanisation, emphasising the urgent need for their documentation and revitalisation.The study contributes to the broader field of environmental linguistics, particularly in the context of indigenous languages and ecological knowledge.