Eksplorasi Leksikon Proses Pembuatan Brem dalam Tradisi Lisan Desa Kaliabu, Kabupaten Madiun

Abstract

Madiun is known for brem, a traditional food produced in the village of Kaliabu. In its production process, brem involves a specialized lexicon frequently used by the workers. This study aims to analyze the lexical forms used in the brem production process and to examine the meanings of these terms from both lexical and cultural perspectives. Given that the current generation tends to view brem merely as a traditional food without understanding the process behind it—which holds many valuable lessons—the researcher is interested in studying it as a means of preserving local culture through the lexicon used in the brem production process. This study employs a descriptive qualitative method with a semantic analysis. Data were collected through participatory observation at the brem production site and in-depth interviews with five key informants—namely, the owner of a brem production facility and several local residents in Kaliabu Village, Madiun Regency. Data analysis utilized Kridalaksana’s lexical form theory, Abdul Chaer’s lexical meaning theory, and Subroto’s cultural meaning theory, with data validity ensured through triangulation of sources and methods. The results of the study revealed 30 lexical terms related to the brem production process, which were subsequently classified into 15 general lexical terms and 15 specific lexical terms. Among the specific lexical terms, both monomorphemic and polymorphemic forms were identified, dominated by the affixes –an, ng-, ny-, and m-. Furthermore, the specific lexical terms were categorized into four groups: tools, materials, processes, and products. The researcher found that the specialized lexical items in the brem production process possess lexical and cultural meanings that embody important values applicable to daily life; for example, the term “blandongan”—a traditional tool used to squeeze tapai ketan—is interpreted as a symbol of a cultural heritage that has been passed down through generations and remains preserved to this day.