Linguocultural features of the lexeme cosmonaut

Abstract

The article presents a linguacultural analysis of the lexeme cosmonaut, which is considered not merely as a name for a job, but also as the name of a complex linguacultural concept, encapsulating the key meanings and values of Soviet and Russian culture during the space exploration era. The core issue lies in identifying the national-cultural specificity and the value-based meanings attached to this word within the Russian linguistic worldview. The aim of the research is to examine the image of the cosmonaut as a phenomenon of Russian culture, combining the archetype of the hero-pioneer, the ideals of progress, and national pride. To achieve this goal, the author examines dictionary definitions, the word-formation nest, set phrases, and artistic representations. Particular attention is paid to the evolution of the word’s meaning and its cultural-national connotation in the post-Soviet period, which is marked by a transition from a sacralized symbol to a more professional and multifaceted image. The study reveals that the concept of cosmonaut accumulates the key meanings of the space age and crystallizes the core meanings and values of Soviet and Russian culture. Furthermore, its figurative and value-based components have evolved in the post-Soviet period while retaining their status as an important element of national identity.