Call them by their names!
If Chicagoans are from Chicago, where are Nutmeggers from?
Image: Pixabay
Have you ever wondered what to call someone from a different state or city? While some state or city names naturally lend themselves to demonyms (for example, someone from Chicago is called a Chicagoan ), others have taken more creative or unexpected routes. Some demonyms are historic, while others are quirky and worth a second look. So, here are some of the most interesting official (and unofficial) demonyms from across the country!
1
Connecticut - The Land of the Nutmeggers
Image: Rusty Watson
While "Connecticuter" might be the official term, most people in Connecticut prefer the more charming nickname: Nutmegger. The name dates back to colonial times, when Connecticut traders were said to sell wooden nutmegs to unsuspecting buyers.
Maybe this is just a myth, but the nickname stuck, and today, Nutmeggers wear it with pride.
2
Kansas - Jayhawkers and Kansans
Image: madeleine craine
Kansas residents have two names to choose from: the straightforward "Kansan" and the more colorful "Jayhawker."
The latter has roots in the Civil War era, when it was the term used to describe anti-slavery guerrilla fighters. Over time, it evolved into a general nickname for Kansans and is now especially associated with the University of Kansas and its sports teams.
3
Massachusetts - Bay Staters Unite
Image: Venti Views
Many state-based nicknames trace their roots to official state monikers. For example, residents of Massachusetts proudly call themselves Bay Staters, a nod to the state’s nickname, "The Bay State."
Massachusetts has a long colonial history defined by its coastal economy, from fishing to trade. So, while "Massachusettsan" technically works, you’ll rarely hear anyone use it. Bay Staters take pride in their rich Revolutionary War history, world-class universities, and, of course, their love of sports (go Sox!).
4
New Hampshire - The Granite Staters
Image: Suraj Gattani
If you’re from New Hampshire, you’re a Granite Stater—a name that reflects the state’s rugged and independent spirit. But do you know where the term comes from?
It originates from the state’s vast granite formations and quarries, which were once a major industry. But the nickname represents more than just rock; it’s a metaphor for the residents’ resilience and toughness. No wonder the state’s motto is "Live Free or Die"!
5
Ohio - The Buckeye State’s Buckeyes
Image: Matthew Bornhorst
Ohioans have an official demonym, but most people prefer Buckeye. The nickname comes from the state tree, the buckeye, whose nut resembles the eye of a deer.
It gained popularity during the 1840 presidential campaign of Ohioan William Henry Harrison, who was nicknamed the "Log Cabin and Hard Cider Candidate." Today, Buckeye is more than a demonym—it’s the name of a sports team, a state candy, and a symbol of Ohio pride!
6
Indiana - Hoosier Mysteries
Image: Ryan De Hamer
No one knows exactly where the term Hoosier comes from, but that hasn’t stopped Indiana residents from embracing it enthusiastically.
Some theories suggest it originated as an old frontier greeting ("Who’s here?"), while others trace it to hardworking laborers called "hoosiers" in the 1800s. In any case, Hoosiers are fiercely proud of their basketball legacy, farming roots, and the legendary Indy 500.
7
New Jersey - New Jerseyans or New Jerseyites?
Image: Manisha Raghunath
New Jersey residents can choose between New Jerseyan and New Jerseyite, though the former is much more common.
While the rest of the country might associate New Jersey with diners, boardwalks, and The Sopranos , New Jerseyans know their state is about much more. With its mix of beaches, suburbs, cities, and farmland, they've earned the right to choose their own demonym!
8
Hawaii - Kama‘āina, Malihini, and More
Image: Luke McKeown
In Hawaii, what you call someone often depends on how long they’ve been there. Does that make sense? It does to them!
A kama‘āina is a longtime resident, regardless of ethnicity, while a malihini is a newcomer. Yes, "Hawaii resident" is perfectly acceptable, but the island terms carry deeper meaning. Kama‘āina reflects a strong connection to the islands, traditions, and way of life, while malihini refers to those still learning and adapting. No matter whether you're kama‘āina or malihini , the aloha spirit welcomes all.
9
Michigan - Michiganians, Michiganders, or Michiganites?
Image: Brad Switzer
Michigan residents have a lot of options: Michiganians, Michiganders, or Michiganites. Let’s set the record straight: Michiganian is the official term, but Michigander is by far the most popular, thanks in part to Abraham Lincoln, who supposedly coined it to tease a political opponent from Michigan.
Some people even prefer Michiganite , though it sounds more like a type of rock than a person, right? No matter the term, they’re all part of the same mitten-shaped home.
10
Colorado - Coloradan or Coloradoan?
Image: Rich Martello
The great and final debate: Coloradan or Coloradoan? Actually, both are used, but Coloradan is the more common choice. The extra "o" in Coloradoan might seem unnecessary, but some argue it better reflects the state’s Spanish origins.
Either way, residents of Colorado are known for their love of the outdoors, craft beer, and breathtaking mountain landscapes. So, if you’re wondering what to call them, just don’t call them flatlanders!
