| Abstract: |
This study focuses on the Sociolinguistic Analysis of Theophoric names in Onicha Igboeze. It is
pertinent to note that certain personal names in Onicha Igboeze are theophoric for having been
related to or derived from or bearing the name of a god. The personal name embeds the word
equivalent of ?god? or God?s name reflecting something about the character of the person or
circumstances surrounding the birth of the bearer in relation to that god or deity. Meanwhile, names
as mark of identification have relevance, prospects and experiences in accordance with the
prevailing situations of a particular person or bearer. Therefore, this research explores the place of
names in the linguistic, social and religious views of Onicha Igboeze people. Personal names
become closely related to various events in the social life of a person, his/her family as well as
society. Personal names status and symbol provide information on the bearer?s place (Anderson,
2007). The Primary Data were purposively collected from the native speakers of Onicha Igboeze
variety of Igbo language. Because of the nature and purpose of this research, the researcher used
stratified sampling technique within the 3 three strata of the area of study in relation to Onicha
Igboeze theophoric names that seem relevant to the work .The secondary data were collected from
books, journals, newspaper, online works, and other related books where instances of theophoric
names were discussed. Also, introspection, that is the knowledge and/or contribution of the
researcher who is indigenous to the area of study - Onicha Igboeze community. Hence, this study
adopts descriptive and qualitative method of data analysis. |
EBONYI JOURNAL OF LANGUAGE
