25 Most Unusual Demonyms: The Weirdest Names for People From Places
Discover the strangest demonyms in the English language—from Liverpudlians to Novocastrians. Learn the fascinating stories behind these unusual names for people from places.
Montanan
/mɒnˈtænən/
Want to explore where Montanans live? Here's the atlas that does it best:
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The name Montana is derived from the Spanish word montaña, meaning "mountain." The name was chosen to reflect the state's mountainous terrain, especially the Rocky Mountains.
The term was first used in the mid-19th century when the Montana Territory was established. Montana became the 41st state on November 8, 1889. The demonym Montanan is formed by adding -an to the state name, in line with other U.S. state demonyms.
The area's rich history is reflected in the remarkable people connected to it.
Helena, Montana
An Academy Award-winning actor known for his understated, authentic acting style and roles in classic Westerns.
Cardwell, Montana
A television newscaster best known for co-anchoring NBC's evening news program, 'The Huntley-Brinkley Report.'
Missoula, Montana
A comedian and actor best known for his work as a cast member on 'Saturday Night Live.'
Missoula, Montana
The first woman elected to the U.S. Congress and a lifelong pacifist who voted against both World Wars.
New York City (Raised in Missoula, Montana)
The longest-serving Senate Majority Leader in U.S. history and a respected diplomat who served as Ambassador to Japan.
Princeton, Missouri (Lived in Montana)
A frontierswoman and professional scout known for her claims of being an acquaintance of Wild Bill Hickok.
St. Louis, Missouri (Lived in Great Falls, Montana)
A renowned artist of the American Old West who created more than 2,000 paintings of cowboys, Indians, and landscapes.
Deer Lodge, Montana
A legendary NBA coach who won a record 11 championships with the Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers.
Other places in the region and their demonyms
Want to explore where Montanans live? Here's the atlas that does it best:
Highly detailed, stunning visuals
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Challenge yourself with our demonym quizzes and see how many you can get right!
Take a Quiz →Discover the strangest demonyms in the English language—from Liverpudlians to Novocastrians. Learn the fascinating stories behind these unusual names for people from places.
Explore the fascinating etymology behind demonyms. Learn how Greek, Latin, Germanic, and other language families shape the names we call people from different places.
Challenge yourself with our demonym quizzes and see how many you can get right!
Take a Quiz →Discover demonyms from other places in this region