Naming New Hybrid Caladium: Linguistic Characteristics, Semantic Domains, and Cultural Significance

Abstract

This research has four objectives: (1) to support the Royal Plant Genetic Conservation Project initiated by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, (2) to examine the linguistic characteristics of names for hybrid caladium cultivars, (3) to explore their semantic domains, and
(4) to investigate the beliefs and values reflected through these names. Using an ethnosemantic approach, the study analyzes 822 caladium names registered with the Thai Caladium Society from 1982 to 2024. Findings identify three linguistic aspects of caladium naming: phonological features, with names commonly having three, four, or two syllables, often using alliteration and assonance; lexical features, including partial repetition, varied linguistic registers, and deliberate spelling variations; and semantic features, such as related words, synonyms, and occasional negative connotations. The names’ meanings are categorized into 19 semantic groups, reflecting 12 core Thai cultural values. These findings highlight how language, culture, and societal values shape the naming of hybrid caladium cultivars.