Demonym

Demonym

ˈdeməˌnim

Noun

  • A noun used to denote the natives or inhabitants of a particular country, state, city, etc.

Get a new word in your inbox every day.

By subscribing you are agreeing to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

Example Sentences

“I know the demonym for a resident of Indiana is ‘Hoosier,’ but I don’t know the history of the word.”

“I currently live in Australia, but I still claim my demonym as British.”

“He was so proud of his state demonym, Coloradan, that he got it tattooed on his back.”

Word Origin

Greek, mid-19th century

Why this word?

“Demonym” comes from Greek — “dēmos” meaning “people,” and “onuma” meaning “name.” A demonym identifies a native of a certain geographical place or ethnic group. These words might be as simple as the name of a place with an added suffix (as in “Japanese,” “Egyptian,” and “Parisian”), or they could be entirely different words. “Mancunian,” “Neapolitan,” and “Porteño,” for example, refer to residents of Manchester, England; Naples, Italy; and Buenos Aires, Argentina, respectively.

  • More brands you’ll love

    Elevate Your Everyday

    More brands you’ll love

    Elevate Your Everyday

    Subscribe to Better Report to receive tips and tricks that will save you money, maximize your time, and improve your life.

    Subscribe to Better Report
    By clicking “Subscribe” you’re agreeing to Better Report Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Learn a new word Heteroclite

ˈhedərəˌklīt