The etymology of the word "Bulgar" is uncertain, but it is likely related to the Proto-Turkic word "bulğar", meaning "to mix", "to stir", or "to churn".
However, the exact meaning of the name Bulgaria in relation to the Bulgars is unclear. It could refer to:
* The people themselves: Bulgaria could simply be a geographical term describing the land inhabited by the Bulgars.
* A specific tribe: Some theories suggest that the Bulgars were a federation of tribes, and Bulgaria may have referred to a specific tribe within this group.
* A metaphorical meaning: Some scholars have suggested that the word "Bulgar" carries a metaphorical meaning related to the Bulgars' nomadic lifestyle, their ability to adapt and blend with different cultures, or their role as "mixers" of people and cultures.
Ultimately, the precise meaning of the name Bulgaria remains debated among historians and linguists. However, it is clear that the name derives from the Bulgar people and their presence in the region.