The Slavic Toponymy of Early 20th Century Austria-Hungary in Epistolary Intercourse

The paper attempts to interpret phonetic, lexical, and graphic features of toponyms mentioned in the letters Gradiscan Croats, residents Chunovo village (presently, outskirts Bratislava Slovakia on border with Hungary Austria). These placenames appear three languages: German, Croatian, Hungarian provide an insight whole system local (names villages towns) oral speech inhabitants early 20th century (1908–1918). About a hundred items are drawn from correspondence published by historians book members Yandrovich family. analysis shows that Gradishian-Croatian German elements predominate over ones, even though was part Austria-Hungary, locals studied language at school used it official communication. Particular attention is paid specific use prepositions which influence foreign speech. A significant number toponymic forms show traits Slavic rendered writing, while some instances name appears only Croatian version. Examples noted when version co-exists or Hungarian. formant -hof (from das Hof ‘yard’), denote parts have different proper name, considered separately. Sometimes designations can be classified as microtoponyms known correspondents themselves. It also typical names wealthy employers become designation particular place. epistolary material showcases specificity rural life Croats beginning century.