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

Idaho might be famous for potatoes, but its place names are a real test for newcomers. With a mix of Native American, French, and frontier influences, some of these words look nothing like they sound. If you can pronounce them all without hesitation, you’re either a true Idahoan—or you’ve been lost in the backcountry for way too long.

14 Words Only True Idahoans Can Pronounce

Boise (BOY-see)

If you say “Boy-zee,” pack your bags, you’re not from here.

Coeur d’Alene (Core-duh-LANE)

French settlers left their mark, but locals have simplified things.

Kuna (KYOO-nuh)

It’s not “Kuh-nuh.” Get it right before you visit.

Weiser (WEE-zer)

Not “Way-ser.” Even Idahoans don’t know why.

Owyhee (Oh-WHY-hee)

Named after Hawaiian fur trappers, but you’d never guess that from looking at it.

Pocatello (Poke-uh-TELL-oh)

If you say “Poke-a-tello,” you might as well leave now.

Shoshone (Show-SHOWN)

It’s not “Show-shone,” and arguing will get you nowhere.

Nez Perce (Nezz PURSE)

The French might cry, but this is how Idahoans say it.

Moscow (MOSS-co)

This ain’t Russia; drop that final “w” sound.

Arco (AR-ko)

Small town, big claim to fame: first place powered by nuclear energy.

Kamiah (KAM-ee-eye)

Looks easy, sounds tricky.

Burley (BURR-lee)

If you know it, you probably have strong opinions on potatoes.

Salmon (SAM-un)

Say that “L,” and you’re getting kicked out of the state.

Pend Oreille (Ponder-AY)

Fancy French spelling, pure Idaho pronunciation.

If you got all of these right, congratulations—you’ve officially earned the right to call out outsiders when they say “Boy-zee.” You know that fry sauce is a superior condiment, you’ve been stuck behind a slow driver on Highway 55, and you’ve probably used the phrase “Idahome” unironically. For everyone else, just nod, smile, and maybe practice before asking for directions.

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