The Semantic Classification of the Phoneme ts

Abstract

In colloquial speech, the semantic classification of the phoneme ts is clearly manifested, as evidenced by the rich and varied lexical inventory containing this phoneme. Within this inventory, a close and organic relationship between word meaning and the phonetic element ts can be distinctly observed. Particularly abundant and diverse material in this regard is preserved in the dialects of the Georgian language. The present paper examines lexicosemantic groups containing the phoneme ts as attested in various Georgian dialects, including words denoting liquids, expressions of small quantity and diminutiveness, names of thin or slender objects, vocabulary expressing fineness or minuteness, and related categories.