DIACHRONIC CHANGES IN THE LEXICAL FIELD OF PHYTONYMS: ENGLISH AND UZBEK COMPARISON

Abstract

This article explores the diachronic (historical) development of phytonyms—plant names—in the English and Uzbek languages. By analyzing literary texts, historical dictionaries, and ethnobotanical sources from different periods, the study traces how plant names have evolved in form, meaning, and cultural relevance. The findings reveal that both English and Uzbek phytonyms have undergone lexical shifts due to sociocultural change, contact with other languages, and technological progress. While English phytonyms have been influenced by Latin and French, Uzbek plant names reflect Arabic, Persian, and Russian lexical borrowings. The article also discusses the preservation and loss of certain archaic plant names in both traditions.