Texas – the Lone Star State, where everything is bigger—including the challenge of pronouncing its town names. With roots in Spanish, Native American, German, and plain ol’ Texas grit, these place names are as unique as the state itself. If you can say these 13 words without hesitation, you’ve probably eaten your weight in brisket and know the difference between a bluebonnet and a bluebell.
The 13 Words:
Waxahachie (Wawks-uh-HATCH-ee)
The harder it looks, the more Texan it sounds.
Amarillo (Am-uh-RILL-oh)
Not Am-uh-REE-oh. This is Texan Spanish, y’all.
Texas (TEK-sis)
Easy, but say it with pride, like you’re ready to defend it.
Guadalupe (Gwah-duh-LOOP)
A river, a street, and a name every Texan learns early.
Houston (HYOO-stun)
Forget the “Hew-ston” nonsense—this is Texas, not New York.
San Antonio (San An-TONE-ee-oh)
Fast and smooth, like the riverwalk itself.
Bexar (Bear)
The “x” is silent—just like the argument over how to pronounce it isn’t.
Llano (YAH-no)
The “ll” is Spanish for “we’re not messing around.”
Palestine (Pal-uh-STEEN)
Forget how they say it overseas—this is East Texas, partner.
Boerne (BUR-nee)
A German-inspired gem that trips up tourists every time.
Nacogdoches (Nack-uh-DOH-chess)
The oldest town in Texas and a name you’ll get right if you’ve spent enough time here.
Refugio (Re-FYOO-ree-oh)
Don’t try to be fancy—just say it like a Texan.
Mexia (Muh-HAY-uh)
Looks intimidating, but locals know it’s just part of the Texas charm.
How’d you do? If these names flowed off your tongue like queso on chips, congrats—you’re a true Texan. If not, no worries—just grab a Dr Pepper, watch the sunset over a Hill Country ranch, and let the locals help you out. Because in Texas, it’s not just about pronouncing the names—it’s about saying them with the swagger of the Lone Star State. 🤠🌵
