Bababilikék Bébibálna és Kockabogár, avagy az autónevekről

Abstract

This paper discusses a special type of names for objects, i.e. names given to cars by their owners or users. Names for cars, though not treated frequently in the literature, present some interesting aspects for consideration. The author collected 280 names via an Internet survey and classified them into six comprehensive categories: car names motivated by trade names (brands and types), the license plates (letters and numbers on license plates), appearance (colour, size, sound, etc.), characteristics (age, power, speed, etc.), the owner’s affection and outstanding events (the purchase of the car, etc.). Gender differences in naming practices can also be observed: females often choose names expressing their affection towards their cars; males, however, prefer names motivated by the characteristics of their cars.