Entre estradas e termos: a dinâmica lexical e cultural das caminhoneiras e caminhoneiros brasileiros em perspectiva terminológica

Abstract

The present study is dedicated to the analysis of the lexical universe of Brazilian truck drivers, understanding language as a central element in the construction of their professional identity and culture. The qualitative and bibliographic-documentary research aimed to fill an academic gap by systematizing and describing the "boleia" lexicon, which is manifested in a rich tapestry of terms, slang, jargon, and nicknames. The research is based on a solid theoretical framework that articulates the perspectives of Lexicology (Biderman, 1978; Bechara, 2000), Terminology (Finatto; Krieger, 2004; Sales, 2007), Terminography (Finatto; Krieger, 2004), and Sociolinguistics (Etto & Carlos, 2017; Bagno, 2004). The methodology was based on analyzing a documentary corpus extracted from digital media and specialized publications, which culminated in the creation of a descriptive terminographical vocabulary. The results show that this vocabulary, besides facilitating technical communication, expresses the group's worldview and strengthens the bonds of belonging, giving voice, in particular, to the resilience and pioneering spirit of women who paved the roads and reconfigured the professional landscape. The analysis also reflects the historical transformations of the profession, such as the evolution of the term "truck driver" (Kapron, 2012). The attached vocabulary, the final product of this work, constitutes a valuable tool that promotes the linguistic and cultural heritage of a professional class of inestimable importance to Brazilian society.