Waugh, Doreen J.

2013-06-26T14:04:22Z

2013-06-26T14:04:22Z

1985

This thesis seeks to examine the place-names of six parishes in Caithness as recorded on the 611 Ordnance Survey maps of the region. The parishes in question are Reay, Thurso, Olrig, Dunnet, Canisbay and Wick. The two opening chapters contain a commentary on the settlement history of Caithness as seen through its place-names and an evaluation of the role of the local informant in a study of Caithness names. Chapter Three provides distribution maps which illustrate points made in the opening chapters. The ensuing chapters contain detailed comments on each individual place-name, quoting early references to the name where available and, when possible, suggesting a derivation. Local pronunciation is recorded if the name is still in use and it is frequently of great assistance in interpreting the name. To facilitate reference the place-names are listed alphabetically by parish under the headings "Settlement Names" and "Topographical Names" and an alphabetical index of all names is provided at the end of the thesis. This close examination of individual names has led to various conclusions regarding the naming practices and settlement patterns of the linguistic groups who have inhabited Caithness and have left evidence of their presence in the place-names.

353033

http://hdl.handle.net/1842/7355

eng

University of Edinburgh

Linguistics

Anthropology

Folklore

Place-names of six parishes in Caithness, Scotland

The place-names of six parishes in Caithness, Scotland

PhD Doctor of Philosophy