islandnaming
Island naming, also referred to as islandnaming, is the practice and study of assigning names to islands and island groups, a specialized area within toponymy. It encompasses linguistic, historical, political, and cultural dimensions of how islands come to be identified on maps, charts, and in everyday use. Names may reflect indigenous linguistic heritage, descriptive geography, exploratory expeditions, patrons of exploration, or sovereign authority.
The history of island naming mirrors patterns of contact and power. Indigenous communities often retain traditional
Practices in island naming include preserving or reinstating local or indigenous names, creating descriptive descriptors (for
Contemporary issues in island naming address decolonization, recognition of indigenous place names, and disputes over sovereignty
Related topics include toponymy, geographic naming conventions, and indigenous place names.