15 Places That Don't Mean What You Think: Explained
Discover 15 places that don't mean what you think—from Paris, Texas to Greenland—and the surprising stories behind their misleading names.
New Jerseyan
/njuː ˈdʒɜːrziən/

Trenton is the capital of New Jersey and sits on the Delaware River in the central part of the state. New Jersey was admitted to the Union on December 18, 1787, as the 3rd state. The city has been the seat of state government for centuries, and it played a role in the American Revolution, including the famous Battle of Trenton in 1776. Trenton is densely populated and has strong pharmaceutical and logistics sectors that serve the wider region. The city's location gives it commuter links to New York City and Philadelphia, which makes it an important hub within the Northeast corridor. Visitors can explore the New Jersey State House, the Old Barracks Museum, and the historic riverfront, which together tell the story of a city that has long been central to both state government and American independence.
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The name New Jersey honors the Channel Island of Jersey in the English Channel. Sir George Carteret, one of the colony's founders, was born on Jersey and named the region in its honor.
New Jersey was one of the original Thirteen Colonies and became the 3rd state on December 18, 1787. The demonym New Jerseyan is formed by adding -an to the state name.
New Jerseyans and those associated with this region have made significant contributions to the world.
Long Branch, New Jersey
An iconic singer-songwriter known as 'The Boss,' whose music often reflects the lives of working-class Americans.
Hoboken, New Jersey
One of the most popular and influential musical artists of the 20th century.
Summit, New Jersey
An Academy Award-winning actress often described as the 'best actress of her generation.'
Newark, New Jersey
One of the best-selling music artists of all time, known for her powerful voice and numerous hits.
Milan, Ohio (Lived in Menlo Park, New Jersey)
A prolific inventor who developed many devices that greatly influenced life around the world, including the light bulb.
Glen Ridge, New Jersey
An astronaut and engineer who was the second person to walk on the Moon.
Newark, New Jersey
A Hall of Fame NBA player who is considered one of the greatest centers in basketball history.
Mount Laurel, New Jersey
A suffragist and women's rights activist who was one of the main leaders of the campaign for the 19th Amendment.
Other places in the region and their demonyms
Discover 15 places that don't mean what you think—from Paris, Texas to Greenland—and the surprising stories behind their misleading names.
From Montenegro to Naples, these 20 place names that were literally translated show how languages rebuild geography — and what the originals mean.
Want to explore where New Jerseyans 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 →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