What Is a Demonym? Definition, Meaning, and Examples
A demonym is the word for people from a place — like 'Parisian,' 'Texan,' or 'Japanese.' Learn the demonym definition, how demonyms are formed, and how they differ from nationality and ethnicity.
People from North Dakota are called North Dakotan.
North Dakotan
/ˌnɔːrθ dəˈkoʊtən/

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The name North Dakota comes from the Dakota Sioux word Dakota, meaning "allies" or "friends." The Dakota are one of the major divisions of the Sioux nation. The Dakota Territory was split into North and South Dakota in 1889.
North Dakota became the 39th state on November 2, 1889. The demonym North Dakotan is formed by adding -an to the state name.
The area's rich history is reflected in the remarkable people connected to it.
Strasburg, ND
Bandleader and TV personality, host of 'The Lawrence Welk Show'.
Jamestown, ND
Grammy-winning singer-songwriter known for her sultry vocals and hits like 'Fever'.
Minot, ND
Actor known for his roles in 'Transformers' and 'Las Vegas'.
Deer Lodge, MT (Raised in Williston, ND)
NBA player and legendary coach who won 11 championships as a coach.
Hibbing, MN (Raised in Fargo, ND)
MLB player who set the single-season home run record in 1961.
Jamestown, ND
Prolific author of Western novels and short stories.
Scranton, ND
Lawyer and diplomat who served as the 63rd U.S. Secretary of State.
Lemhi River Valley, ID (Lived in ND)
Shoshone woman who helped the Lewis and Clark Expedition achieve its goals.
Other places in the region and their demonyms
Want to explore where North Dakotans 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 →A demonym is the word for people from a place — like 'Parisian,' 'Texan,' or 'Japanese.' Learn the demonym definition, how demonyms are formed, and how they differ from nationality and ethnicity.
From Angelenos and Phoenicians to Minneapolitians and Salt Lakers, discover 25 U.S. city demonyms that break normal grammar rules, along with the fascinating history behind them.
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