Аңдатпа
The toponyms of Zhetysu contain a distinct and structurally coherent layer of geographical names of Mongolian origins. This paper investigates the region’s Mongolic toponyms across the three key historical phases: (1) the period of Turkic-Mongolic linguistic convergence, which produced archaic toponymic forms; (2) the Mongol conquest, marked by the introduction of new place names; and (3) the Jungar rule in Zhetysu, which left a lasting imprint on local nomenclature. Given the nearly century-long presence of Oirat tribes in the area, particular attention is devoted to KazakhJungar relations and the linguistic interactions that shaped their contact zone. This study aims to highlight the importance of the Kazakh-Jungar linguistic contact that is crucial for the analysis of the Zhetysu area. The article shows how each historical layer is reflected in the modern toponymic landscape of Zhetysu. The aim of this study is to collect and analyse place names of Mongolian origin that emerged during the three periods mentioned and have survived to the present day. Our aim is an attempt to determine their meanings and the reasons for their emergence. The research highlights that historical developments within these periods contributed to changes in the region’s toponymic corpus. The article employs the comparative-historical method, the reconstruction and the structural method. Methods of word and toponym formation are used as well. Oral tradition and local narratives are incorporated to aid in reconstructing the origins of specific place names. Findings demonstrate that extended contact with Mongolic-speaking populations resulted in the integration and subsequent adaptation of numerous Mongolian toponyms into the Kazakh language. Ultimately, the study assesses the scope and character of the Mongolian toponymic stratum’s influence on Zhetysu’s toponymic system, evaluating its significance within the region’s broader historical and geographical context. The study identified the influence and role of Mongolian place names on the toponymic system of the Zhetysu region.