Abstract
This paper examines the usage of Arabic-derived loanwords in the poetic language of classical Kazakh zhyrau (traditional Kazakh bard) of the 16th–18th centuries, focusing on pragmatic motivations and stylistic effects. Prominent zhyraus such as Shalkiiz, Zhienbet, Marqasqa, Bukhar, Aqtanberdi, Tatıqara, Umbetei, Kotesh, and Shal frequently employed Arabic-origin terms in their tolgau (didactic poetic speech transmitted orally). We analyze why these poets integrated Arabic loanwords into their predominantly Turkic lexicon and how these borrowings enriched orality and literary style. Drawing on examples from the zhyraus' verses and on linguistic studies, we find that Arabic words were adopted to convey key religious and abstract concepts, to lend authority and erudition to the bard's message, and to achieve particular rhetorical effects. Pragmatically, the use of Arabicisms helped the zhyraus address their audience in culturally resonant terms-invoking Islamic values, reinforcing moral instructions, and aligning with the listeners' worldview. Stylistically, the loanwords contributed to an elevated "bookish" tone, enhanced the expressive depth of the poetry, and introduced novel sounds and imagery that made the performances more memorable. By situating these findings in the broader context of Kazakh linguistic history and literature, the study sheds light on the interplay between language contact and literary artistry in Kazakhstan's oral epic tradition. Furthermore, the findings provide practical insights that can inform contemporary Kazakh literature studies and enrich language education by highlighting the cultural and didactic functions of loanwords in poetic discourse.