Keresztnevek köznevesülése a finn szlengben

Abstract

Appellativization of first names in the Finnish slangThis article explores appellativization of first names in colloquial Finnish through the analysis of three subthemes. First, Finnish slang compounds which include an appellativized homonym of a first name either as a head or a modifier are analysed, e.g., baarimikko 'bartender' (literally 'bar' + male name Mikko). It is shown that such compounds often refer to an occupation or a feature of a person, and that the motivation of the appellativization varies. Secondly, in the focus are three appellativized expressions, uuno, tauno, and urpo. They all mean 'stupid' and are used as terms of abuse, but they also have their own meanings and usages. Thirdly, the appellativized male name jonne is discussed. This expression refers to a certain kind of teenage boy and has been appellativized quite recently. The analysis illustrates that the appellativization of first names is a productive phenomenon in the colloquial Finnish.