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.
West Virginian
/ˌwɛst vərˈdʒɪniən/
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Formed during the Civil War from northwestern Virginia counties; name references its origin from Virginia.
Generations of talented individuals have been associated with this vibrant place.
Myra, West Virginia
U.S. Air Force officer and test pilot who became the first person to break the sound barrier.
White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia
NASA mathematician whose calculations were critical to the success of the first U.S. crewed spaceflights.
Hillsboro, West Virginia
Nobel Prize-winning author known for 'The Good Earth', depicting peasant life in China.
Chelyan, West Virginia
NBA legend and the inspiration for the NBA logo, known as 'Mr. Clutch'.
Fairmont, West Virginia
Gymnast who became the first American woman to win the individual all-around gold medal at the Olympics.
Glen Dale, West Virginia
Country music singer-songwriter and guitarist with numerous hits and awards.
Welch, West Virginia
Comedian, television host, and author known for 'Family Feud' and his stand-up comedy.
Slab Fork, West Virginia
Soul singer-songwriter known for timeless hits like 'Lean on Me' and 'Ain't No Sunshine'.
Other places in the region and their demonyms
Want to explore where West Virginians 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