The word "Scituate" is derived from an indigenous word, "Satuit," which means "Cold Brook." This name originally referred to a small stream that flows into the harbor in what is now the town of Scituate.
Origin and Historical Context
The name's origin traces back to an Indian word, "Satuit," which early European settlers interpreted as "Cold Brook." This specific "Cold Brook" was a notable natural feature, a small stream flowing into the local harbor, which became a key identifier for the area.
Over time, as settlers began to record the name, its spelling underwent several variations before standardizing. Common early spellings included:
- Sityate
- Cituate
- Seteat
It wasn't until around 1640 that the spelling "Scituate" became widely adopted and universal, cementing its place as the official name for the community. The meaning, however, remained rooted in its initial interpretation of "Cold Brook," reflecting the geographic characteristics that distinguished the area to its earliest inhabitants and subsequent settlers.
