Place Names of the World

Place names, or toponyms, are labels given to geographical locations—cities, rivers, countries—that often reflect history, culture, geography, or language. They can reveal origins, such as “Greenland” suggesting lush lands or “Istanbul” highlighting historical shifts. Names may derive from ancient stories, tribes, natural features, or influential figures. Understanding place names offers insights into a region’s past and identity, helping us appreciate cultural diversity and historical connections across the world. These names often evolve over time but remain meaningful maps of human history and geography.