Exploring the Etymological Origins of Rivers Thames and Potomac: A Comparative Analysis of Linguistic Roots

Rivers have been more than just flowing bodies of water throughout human existence. They often serve as namesakes for cities, states, and even entire countries. Two prominent rivers that are often discussed are the Potomac and the Thames. This article delves into whether these names have an etymological connection with the Greek term for rivers, ποταμ?? (potamos).

Etymology of Potomac

The name Potomac is rooted in the Algonquian language, specifically the Patawomeck language. According to historical linguists, the term Potomac likely means "estuary" or "river mouth." However, there is a speculative connection to the Greek term ποταμ?? (potamos), which means "river." This connection is purely coincidental, as the thematic similarity between the two names does not imply a direct etymological link.

Linguistic Roots

While Potomac has its specific indigenous origins, its phonetic similarities to the Greek word for river are noteworthy. The similarity is more likely a result of the human penchant for naming natural features using similar term structures across multiple linguistic families. For instance, the word waterfall in Greek can be derived from the term πετασμα (petasma), meaning "spread" or "broadening."

Etymology of Thames

The name Thames is a mystery in etymology. It is believed to be of pre-Celtic or possibly Celtic origin, with some researchers suggesting it may stem from the river's significance in local mythology or folk traditions. The name Tame or Tamesis is thought to be etymologically related, although its exact derivation is uncertain.

A Comparative Analysis

Both the Potomac and Thames rivers share a linguistic tradition of being named after flowing bodies of water, but their etymologies are distinct. The Potomac is believed to reference an estuary or river mouth, while Thames maintains an enigmatic prehistoric origin. While both share a common thematic link of rivers, the specific meanings and linguistic roots remain separate.

Chantrenne's Lexicon and Eristikon

Geoffrey Chantrenne's lexicon is a treasure for etymologists, akin to a valuable asset in the Evangelion universe. However, it is not without controversy. Chantrenne’s approach can be highly contentious, often engaging in heated debates, especially with scholars like Dimitrious Frisk. Frisk, known for his meticulous etymological dictionaries, often rejects Chantrenne's theories, including his derivations of Greek and other classical languages.

Frisk’s Etymological Insights

Frisk's Dictionnaire Etymologique Grec offers a more detailed and scholarly perspective. According to Frisk, the Greek term ποταμ?? (potamos) is likely derived from the verb e-pet-on, meaning "to befall" or "to fall." An alternative derivation, suggested by Wilhelm Wackernagel, connects it to the German term Faden, meaning "thread" or "twine." This derivation would trace back to the Proto-Indo-European root pot-. Thus, the etymology of Potamis is more tied to the concept of flowing water widening and spreading.

Conclusion

While the names of the Potomac and Thames rivers may share phonetic similarities with the Greek term for river ποταμ?? (potamos), this is purely a coincidental linguistic phenomenon. The etymological roots of these names are firmly grounded in different linguistic histories and traditions. Scholars like Geoffrey Chantrenne and Dimitrios Frisk provide valuable insights into the complex and often contentious world of etymological research.

For those interested in delving deeper into this topic, the Dictionnaire Etymologique Grec by Chantrenne is an invaluable resource, as is Dimitrios Frisk’s comprehensive etymological dictionaries.