People from Massachusetts are most commonly referred to as Massachusettsans or Bay Staters.
Common and Official Designations
When referring to residents of Massachusetts, several terms are used, ranging from general demonyms to official identifiers and colloquialisms. The most widely accepted and common term is "Massachusettsan." The state government frequently uses "Bay Stater," which has also become a well-recognized demonym.
Here’s a breakdown of the various terms:
| Term | Description | Usage Context |
|---|---|---|
| Massachusettsan | The most common and widely accepted demonym. | General use, formal and informal. |
| Bay Stater | An official term often used by the state government. | Official communications, media, common parlance. |
| Citizen of the Commonwealth | An identifier found in state law. | Legal documents, formal contexts. |
| Massachusettsian | An alternative, less common, variant of the demonym. | Less frequent, but sometimes used. |
| Massachusite | Another less common variant. | Infrequent use. |
| Masshole | A colloquial term that can be derogatory or affectionate depending on context. | Derogatory as an exonym; often affectionate as an endonym among residents. |
Understanding "Masshole"
The term "Masshole" is a notable colloquialism associated with people from Massachusetts, particularly in the New England region. Its usage carries significant nuance:
- As an Exonym (used by outsiders): When used by people from outside Massachusetts, it is often intended as a derogatory term. It typically implies a stereotype of Massachusetts residents as aggressive drivers, blunt, or overly proud.
- As an Endonym (used by residents): Among people from Massachusetts themselves, "Masshole" can be used in an affectionate or self-deprecating manner. It can signify a shared identity, a sense of humor about regional stereotypes, or even pride in a perceived toughness or directness. This usage is informal and often playful.
Knowing the context and the speaker's origin is crucial to interpreting the intent behind this term.
