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 Oklahoma are called Oklahoman.
Oklahoman
/ˌoʊkləˈhoʊmən/

Want to explore where Oklahomans live? Here's the atlas that does it best:
Highly detailed, stunning visuals
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
The name Oklahoma comes from the Choctaw words okla ("people") and humma ("red"), together meaning "red people." The term was coined by Choctaw Chief Allen Wright in 1866 to describe Indian Territory.
Oklahoma became the 46th state on November 16, 1907. The demonym Oklahoman is formed by adding -an to the state name.
Generations of talented individuals have been associated with this vibrant place.
Tulsa, Oklahoma
One of the best-selling music artists of all time, known for integrating rock and roll elements into country music.
McAlester, Oklahoma
Often referred to as 'The Queen of Country', she has sold over 75 million records worldwide.
Shawnee, Oklahoma
Academy Award-winning actor and producer, known for roles in 'Fight Club', 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood', and 'Moneyball'.
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Comedian, actor, and writer known for his work on 'Saturday Night Live' and the dark comedy series 'Barry'.
Oologah, Indian Territory (now Oklahoma)
Cherokee-American humorist, actor, and social commentator who was one of the most famous celebrities in the 1920s and 30s.
Wichita, Kansas (raised in Oklahoma)
NFL Hall of Fame running back who played for the Detroit Lions and is considered one of the greatest in football history.
Fairfax, Oklahoma
The first American prima ballerina and the first Native American to hold the rank.
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Novelist and literary critic best known for his masterpiece 'Invisible Man', which won the National Book Award.
Other places in the region and their demonyms
Want to explore where Oklahomans 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