Naiman

Naiman refers to a historical Mongol and later Turkicized people and confederation. Originally, they were one of the tribes that formed the Mongol Empire under Genghis Khan. The Naimans were a significant force in the early 13th century, known for their military strength and administrative organization. They occupied territories in modern-day Mongolia and parts of Central Asia.

Following the fragmentation of the Mongol Empire, the Naimans became integrated into various successor states. Over time, many Naiman groups adopted Turkic languages and customs, leading to their classification as a Turkic people. They played a role in the history of regions such as the Golden Horde and later Uzbek khanates. Their legacy can be found in the ethnogenesis of several modern Turkic groups in Central Asia. The term "Naiman" itself is believed to have Turkic origins, possibly meaning "eight," though its precise etymology is debated.