If You Can Pronounce These 14 Words, You’ve Lived in Connecticut Too Long

Connecticut is a small state with big pronunciation problems. Thanks to its mix of Native American, Dutch, and colonial-era English influences, saying place names correctly is basically a secret skill. If you can get through this list without hesitation, you’ve either lived in the Nutmeg State for years—or you’re just really good at guessing.

14 Words Only True Connecticuters Can Pronounce

Connecticut (Kuh-NET-ih-cut)

The “C” in the middle? Silent. Always has been.

Niantic (Nye-ANN-tick)

It’s a town, not just a Pokémon Go company.

Mianus (My-ANN-us)

Yes, it sounds exactly like what you think. No, we’re not changing it.

Thames River (Temz)

If you say it like it’s spelled, a local will correct you immediately.

Moodus (MOOD-us)

It’s got a weird name, and even weirder “Moodus noises.”

Quinnipiac (KWIN-uh-pee-ack)

If you’re from Connecticut, you know someone who went here.

Hamden (HAM-den)

Not “Ham-uh-den.” We move fast; we don’t have time for extra syllables.

Berlin (BUR-lin)

Unlike the German city, we keep the emphasis on the first syllable.

Pequonnock (Peh-KWAH-nock)

A test of patience for first-time readers.

Wolcott (WOOL-kit)

The second “L” is sneaky; just ignore it.

Waterbury (WAW-duh-bury)

Drop the “T” like a true local.

Pawcatuck (PAW-kah-tuck)

Feels like a tongue twister, but rolls right off for Nutmeggers.

Norwich (NOR-witch)

Not “Nor-wick.” This isn’t England.

Housatonic (Hoos-uh-TON-ik)

Looks scary, but it’s actually pretty easy once you hear it.

If you sailed through these without a second thought, congratulations—you’re officially a Connecticuter (or is it a Nutmegger?). You know how to navigate I-95 traffic like a pro, have very strong opinions about pizza, and probably still refuse to pump your own gas when driving through New Jersey. For everyone else, don’t worry—just fake confidence and mumble through the hard parts like the rest of us.