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Redditors Share Funny Names They Have For Turkey Birds In Different Countries, All Created To Avoid Confusing The Name With The Country (Now Turkiye)

Mia
by Mia
27 Nov 2022

Native to North America, the turkey is a large bird in the genus Meleagris. The wild turkey of eastern and central North America and the ocellated turkey of the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico are the two remaining species of turkey.

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Despite being a native of North America, the turkey most likely gained its name from the domesticated type that was brought to Britain by ships sailing through Spain from the Levant. Due to this association between the bird and Turkey among the British at the time, the name stuck.

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An alternative explanation claims that a different bird, a guinea fowl native to Madagascar that was brought to England by Turkish traders, was the initial source and that English settlers with knowledge of the earlier species later applied the term to the New World bird. Over 20 million years ago, the earliest turkeys emerged in North America.

Other European names for turkeys also suggest an Indian ancestry, such as dinde (from India), индкa (indyushka, "bird of India"), indyk (Polish and Ukrainian), and hindi (Turkish). These are said to be the results of Christopher Columbus' alleged conviction that he had arrived in India during his trip rather than the Americas.

Turkeys are known as Perus in Portuguese; Peru is assumed to be the source of the name.

More Info: Reddit, Wikipedia

Meet u/yesboss2000, a Redditor who has this interesting piece of information to share with the TodayILearned subreddit group

Meet u/yesboss2000, a Redditor who has this interesting piece of information to share with the TodayILearned subreddit group
u/yesboss2000
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Everyone was being confused as to where this bird came from in the days of the New World

Everyone was being confused as to where this bird came from in the days of the New World
Wikipedia

The turkey, which was domesticated about 2,000 years ago, is descended from the wild turkey species. They have a recent common ancestor with other birds like grouse and pheasants.

Here are what Redditors had to say about this information:

Really?

Really?
Reddit

The Cultural Significance of Animal Names

The naming conventions for animals, such as turkeys, reflect cultural identities and linguistic diversity. Research from the University of California, Berkeley, illustrates how language shapes our understanding and connection to the natural world.

This phenomenon underscores the importance of cultural context in the way we perceive and relate to different species.

Cultural Perspectives on Naming and Identity

Dr. Susan Chen, a cultural psychologist at UCLA, explains that names often carry significant cultural meaning and can influence identity formation.

In the case of turkeys, the diverse names across cultures reflect unique relationships between people and animals.

Research shows that the way animals are named can influence perceptions of their roles and importance within different societies.

A mysterious like bird having a mysterious origin

A mysterious like bird having a mysterious origin
Reddit
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In this Redditor's country, it's called pabo

In this Redditor's country, it's called pabo
Reddit

This Redditor says that it's called Peru in Portuguese

This Redditor says that it's called Peru in Portuguese
Reddit

Names can convey significant meanings and associations, influencing how people interact with animals. A study published in the Journal of Social Psychology found that the names we assign to animals can affect our attitudes and behaviors toward them.

In this case, the varied names for turkeys around the world highlight the rich tapestry of human-animal relationships.

Studies in cultural psychology reveal that naming conventions can vary widely, often reflecting historical and social contexts.

According to research published in the Journal of Cross-Cultural Psychology, these differences illustrate how language shapes our understanding of the world around us.

Understanding these dynamics can help foster greater appreciation for cultural diversity.

The first Indian tourist to see slices of Hindi in Turkey

The first Indian tourist to see slices of Hindi in Turkey
Reddit
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This Redditor says that it's called Turkey in Western Canada

This Redditor says that it's called Turkey in Western Canada
Reddit

This Redditor says that it's called donde in French

This Redditor says that it's called donde in French
Reddit

Exploring the Role of Humor in Cultural Traditions

Humor often plays a critical role in cultural traditions, allowing communities to bond over shared experiences. Research from Harvard University indicates that humor can serve as a vehicle for cultural expression and identity.

In this context, the humorous names for turkeys reflect an appreciation for creativity and the playful aspects of language.

The Role of Humor in Cultural Identity

Humor plays a vital role in cultural identity, serving as a means of bonding and expression.

Dr. Peter McGraw, a psychologist at the University of Colorado, emphasizes that humor can help people navigate cultural differences.

By sharing jokes and humorous anecdotes about animals, individuals can strengthen social connections while celebrating diversity.

This Redditor chooses to say Jupiter and that's all

This Redditor chooses to say Jupiter and that's all
Reddit
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This Redditor says that it's called Peru in Brazil

This Redditor says that it's called Peru in Brazil
Reddit

This Redditor is asking why it's not called American

This Redditor is asking why it's not called American
Reddit

To foster cross-cultural understanding, communities can encourage the sharing of stories and traditions related to animal names. This can enhance appreciation for linguistic diversity and promote empathy toward different cultural perspectives.

Additionally, integrating humor into cultural exchanges can facilitate connection and strengthen community bonds.

Research shows that humor can also serve as a coping mechanism in challenging situations, helping individuals manage stress and foster resilience.

According to studies in the American Journal of Psychology, humor can enhance interpersonal relationships and promote emotional well-being.

This underscores the importance of maintaining a light-hearted perspective when discussing cultural differences.

Here, it's all about Brazil nuts

Here, it's all about Brazil nuts
Reddit

This Redditor says that turkey is not derived from a place or country

This Redditor says that turkey is not derived from a place or country
Reddit

This Redditor also says that it's called donde in French

This Redditor also says that it's called donde in French
Reddit

The Psychological Impact of Animal Symbolism

Animals often carry symbolic meanings across cultures, influencing how they are perceived and treated. Research from the University of Toronto highlights that our cultural associations with animals can shape our behaviors and attitudes toward them.

This illustrates the importance of understanding these symbolic meanings in fostering positive human-animal relationships.

Exploring the Intersection of Language and Perception

The way we name and categorize the world around us can significantly shape our perceptions and attitudes.

Dr. Lera Boroditsky, a cognitive scientist at Stanford, argues that language fundamentally influences how we think and perceive reality.

This perspective can be applied to the naming of turkeys across various cultures, highlighting how language impacts our understanding of these animals.

This Redditor says that it's called Ayam Belanda in Malay

This Redditor says that it's called Ayam Belanda in Malay
Reddit

For a while, they were the same thing

For a while, they were the same thing
Reddit

This Redditor says that it's called Truthuhn in German

This Redditor says that it's called Truthuhn in German
Reddit

Understanding the cognitive aspects of language can enhance cross-cultural communication and foster greater connection among diverse groups.

Research indicates that when individuals are aware of the cultural implications of language, they can engage more thoughtfully and empathetically with others.

This approach can lead to richer, more meaningful interactions across cultural boundaries.

This Redditor says they should have gone with gobble-pigeon

This Redditor says they should have gone with gobble-pigeon
Reddit

Confusing it with the guinea fowl

Confusing it with the guinea fowl
Reddit

This Redditor says that it's called Kalkun in Denmark

This Redditor says that it's called Kalkun in Denmark
Reddit

The Psychological Significance of Naming Practices

Names hold psychological significance, influencing how individuals relate to and perceive the world around them.

According to research in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, names can evoke specific emotions and associations, impacting interpersonal dynamics.

This highlights the importance of being mindful of naming practices and their implications in different contexts.

Check this one out

Check this one out
Reddit

Other birds that are occasionally referred to as turkeys include brush turkeys, megapodes, and the species also known as the Australian turkey but actually the Australian bustard. Depending on how its tail looks when its feathers are spread wide for drying, the anhinga is sometimes referred to as the "water turkey."

Leave your thoughts about this piece of information in the comments section below and share this post as well.

In conclusion, the diverse names for turkeys around the world reflect not only cultural differences but also the psychological significance of language.

By exploring these naming conventions, we can gain insight into how language shapes identity and influences relationships.

Ultimately, fostering an appreciation for cultural diversity can enhance our understanding of the world and the connections we share.

Expert Opinion

This discussion sheds light on the cultural significance of naming practices and their psychological implications. It's important to recognize that names are not just labels; they carry deep meanings that shape our perceptions and interactions.

By understanding these dynamics, we can foster greater empathy and connection across cultural divides.

Expert
Dr Aaron Mills
Psychologist

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

In summary, the exploration of naming practices across cultures highlights the intricate relationship between language and identity.

Research underscores the importance of understanding these dynamics to foster appreciation for cultural diversity.

By embracing these insights, we can enhance our interpersonal connections and celebrate the richness of human experience.

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

Experts emphasize the significance of cultural perspectives in understanding animal interactions. According to the American Psychological Association, appreciating the cultural context of animal names can enhance empathy and respect for diversity.

Ultimately, recognizing the rich meanings behind animal names is crucial for fostering positive relationships within communities.

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