"Leire": formas, usos y etimología de un topónimo / "Leire": forms, uses and etymology of a place-name
Iker Basterrika
After having compiled the mentions of Leire until 1202, we have classified them according to several criteria in order determine toponym’s first written and oral forms understand relations between them. We suggest that these can take us back two old toponym (*Le/j/erius *Le/j/orius), which be a result distinct phonetic evolutions Frank anthroponym Leodegarius. Thus, *Le/j/erius would derive from Old French (Leger). It was used more formal contexts: it is documented form one preferably by Church hierarchs name monastery Leire. The evolution *Le/j/orius, turn, involve metathesis find both medieval Basque onomastics (Ligoarius) Aquitanian toponymy (Liguaire). This form, found Romance contexts, vernacular less one. Leodegarius might refer bishop Autun, leader factions fighting Merovingian kingdoms late 7th century, martyr linked subsequent rise Carolingians. So, could correspond dedication foundation contemporary Carolingian counties Pamplona Aragon at beginning 9th century.
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