Micron-Part 2: The Origin of "Mic" and "Micron": A Linguistic Analysis
The words "mic" and "micron" have sparked debate among linguists regarding their origin. While some believe that "micron" comes from the Attic Greek form of "smikros," meaning "small", others argue that it may be a pre-Greek word. This article explores the possibility that the Geg Albanian language is the source of the word "mic," which was later borrowed into ancient Greek.
Phonological and Morphological Analysis
The Geg Albanian word "mic" is a monosyllabic noun with a concrete meaning, referring to a small child or a minor. In contrast, the Greek word "micron" shows signs of later processing and formation, with the prefix "o-" and the suffix "-ron" added to the root "mic." This suggests that the Greek word may be a reconstructed form, built upon the earlier Albanian word "mic."
Semantic Analysis
The word "mic" in Geg Albanian has a rich semantic field, with various meanings and uses. It is used to describe small portions of food, small-sized animals, and even small children. The word "mic" also has a caressing hue, implying a sense of endearment or affection.
In everyday spoken language, "mic" is used in various contexts, such as:
- "Mos e micro aq shumë" ('don't micro something too much')
- "Po e micron shume" ('you're microing it too much')
- "Mos e bo/ba micra micra" ('don't make it too small')
- "Nuk muna me e lexue se shkronjat ishin krejt micra" ('I couldn't read it because the letters were too small')
Etymological Analysis
The etymology of "mic" and "micron" is complex and multifaceted. While some linguists believe that "micron" comes from the PIE root "*smik-," meaning "small," others argue that it may be a pre-Greek word. The Geg Albanian language offers a compelling alternative, with the word "mic" potentially serving as the source for the Greek word "micron."
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Geg Albanian language offers a compelling explanation for the origin of the word "mic" and "micron." The monosyllabic word "mic" has a concrete meaning and is used in everyday spoken language, while the Greek word "micron" shows signs of later processing and formation. Further research is needed to fully explore the etymological connections between these words, but the evidence suggests that the Geg Albanian language may be the source of the word "mic."
References:
- Dictionary of the Albanian language (missing Geg Albanian words such as micra, microj, micrak, mec, etc.)
- MIC m. (Mec of Geg Albanian is missing)
1. Small child.
2. per. mb. Small in stature.
- MEC m. Only in Geg Albanian.
Meaning: male child.
- MICAK The meaning of the word "micak" micák, adjective; also as a noun; small and weak child; mic.
- MICKËL (Micra e Gegnisht is missing) Meaning: Petty/small
- MICËROJ
1. Eat something bit by bit;
2. fig. To do small and insignificant things
Copyright © 2024 Fatmir Iliazi.
Comments
Post a Comment