Onomastica Canadiana, the official journal of the Canadian Society for the Study of Names / Société canadienne d’onomastique (CSSN / SCO), is now inviting submissions in English or French for Volume 96 (2017). Papers in any area of onomastics are welcomed, including (but by no means limited to) studies of place names, personal names, brand names, literary/fictional names, and indigenous names. Authors wishing to offer an article for publication in Onomastica Canadiana should visit the CSSN website to download the Contributors’ Guide, which contains information about the peer-evaluation process as well as stylistic recommendations. This material may also be obtained by e-mailing a request to onomastica.canadiana@gmail.com.
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What’s in a Brand Name?
Why was Tribune Publishing’s re-brand as Tronc a failure? This week’s New Yorker addresses sound symbolism and its importance in choosing a brand name.
Zzyzx, California
Ever heard of Zzyzx, California? Learn the story behind the strange toponym.
Understanding the Names Greenland and Iceland
Wondering why icy Greenland isn’t called Iceland? Listen to Merriam Webster’s Editor Kory Stamper’s short explanation of these toponyms.
Kitten-sized extinct ‘lion’ named after David Attenborough
Once upon a time, a miniature feline predator prowled Australia’s underbrush on the search for unsuspecting birds, frogs, insects, and lizards. For several decades, this razor-toothed, pre-historic marsupial lion has been the subject of intense study among the paleontologists of Australia’s Riversleigh World Heritage Fossil Site (WHFS). However, this year, the extinct mini hunter has also caught the attention of animal name lovers. In honor of Sir David Attenborough’s tireless support of the WHFS, the species has been officially named Microleo Attenboroughi.
Oddly-Named Towns in Each U.S. State
Estately.com looks at some of the most outrageous toponyms in the United States. Enjoy!
Preliminary Schedule for the ANS Conference in Austin, TX
The American Name Society is excited to share the 2017 Conference Schedule for the upcoming annual conference in Austin, TX, from January 5-8, 2017.
For more information about the conference and registration materials, please visit the conferences page.
Please note this schedule is preliminary and may be subject to minor changes.
Why Do We Have Middle Names?
In summary, middle names are “a way to keep family names going and thus preserve relationships,” but their history is more complex. Learn more about this onomastic component of identity.
Changing our Names
Why do we change our names? This article discusses some of the factors behind this monumental decision. ANS President Dr. Iman Nick is among the people interviewed and quoted in the article.
Behind the Chinese names of Western brands
International brands face naming challenges translating their brand names for different markets. Learn more about the creation of Chinese names for Western brands and one agency behind this.