The Place-Names of Wales

Author(s) Hywel Owen

Language: English

Genre(s): Welsh and Celtic Studies

  • March 2015 · 136 pages ·198x129mm

  • · Paperback - 9781783161645
  • · eBook - pdf - 9781783161652
  • · eBook - epub - 9781783161669

About The Book

The Place-Names of Wales was originally published in 1998 and reissued in 2005 in the Pocket Guide series. This current updated publication adds some thirty entries, which importantly take into consideration more recent research. The entry for each place-name provides details of historical forms and dates; analyses each name into its component linguistic elements; tracks the later linguistic development of the name and the influences upon it particularly within a bilingual society; compares the name with similar names elsewhere, and interprets that meaning within the history of Wales and in the local context having regard for the landscape and changing land-use. In addition to explaining the link between place-names and language, history and landscape, the introduction includes a section on the significance of place-name study, and a short section to allow non-Welsh speakers to understand some relevant sound-changes.

Endorsements

‘This book explores the origins and meanings of place-names in
Wales. It is an essential read for all those interested in our rich
cultural heritage and diverse linguistic history. A thoroughly
researched and authoritative work by a distinguished scholar.’
– Professor David A. Thorne

Contents

Introduction
Abbreviations for the pre-1974 counties of Wales
Map of pre-1974 counties of Wales
Place-names
Further reading

About the Author(s)

Author(s): Hywel Owen

Emeritus Professor Hywel Wyn Owen is an acknowledged authority on place-names in Wales, and was formerly director of the Place-Name Research Centre at Bangor University. He is a founder member of the Welsh Place-Name Society, Honorary Vice-President of the English Place-Name Society, and former president of the Society for Name Studies in Britain and Ireland.

Read more