Cavalry terminology in Old Turkic

In this study, the terminology related to cavalry in the Turkic language from the earliest known inscriptions of Turkish language and history—beginning with the Köktürk, Uighur, and Karakhanid periods—has been examined in terms of its formation and development. The emergence of military terms in the Turkic language, their purposes, contexts of use, and historical evolution have been analyzed. In addition, all available information regarding horses, which were indispensable to both cavalry and the social structure of Turkic societies, has been included. Concepts proving that horses and war-related elements (such as armor and weapons) held significant value beyond the battlefield have been explained with examples. It is understood that in the nomadic social structure shaped by geographical conditions, war and horses formed the core of the culture. In this respect, the study also identifies words that not only relate to warfare but also bring together various elements of Turkic governance and social organization. Accordingly, the research has been classified under the following categories: concepts related to horses, harness equipment, weapons, armors, tactics and strategy, army and units, concepts about combat, warriors and their characteristics, concepts of the enemy and the enemy's attributes, and other elements associated with warfare. Through the scanning method, a comprehensive analysis of all these categories has been conducted. The data obtained clearly reveal the influence of war culture on the Turkish language throughout its historical periods. Thus, the power of language to reflect collective memory and ensure cultural continuity has once again been demonstrated.