Linguistic Analysis of Proverbs Containing Phytonyms

Proverbs represent a universal linguistic and cultural phenomenon through which societies encapsulate and transmit moral values, collective experiences, and philosophical reflections in a concise, memorable form. This study focuses on Azerbaijani proverbs that include phytonyms (names of plants) as essential symbolic and semantic components. These proverbs reflect the historical worldview, ecological awareness, and cultural imagination of the Azerbaijani people, illustrating how plant imagery is embedded in folk wisdom and traditional modes of expression. The primary aim of this research is to examine the linguistic structures, semantic functions, and cultural significance of Azerbaijani proverbs containing phytonyms. Special attention is given to the metaphorical depth of these expressions and their role in shaping human perceptions of the natural world. Phytonymic proverbs are shown to function not only as linguistic units but also as cognitive and didactic tools that encapsulate traditional ecological knowledge and ethical values passed down through generations. Firmly rooted in the oral traditions of Azerbaijani culture, these proverbs demonstrate a refined linguistic artistry and a high degree of national self-awareness. The use of plant symbolism serves to convey moral principles, social attitudes, and aesthetic sensibilities. Furthermore, many of these proverbs reflect agricultural practices and nature-based worldviews, offering insight into the ecological and economic conditions of traditional life. This article undertakes a structural, semantic, and stylistic analysis of selected phytonymic proverbs, offering comparative perspectives and emphasizing their role in cultural continuity, identity preservation, and the intergenerational transmission of moral and ecological knowledge.