What's the Most Mispronounced Town in Virginia?

VIRGINIA - Virginia is a state steeped in history, and with that history comes a tapestry of town and county names derived from Native American languages, British figures, and French settlers. For outsiders, navigating this linguistic landscape can be a minefield. While there are plenty of contenders, one name almost universally trips up newcomers: Staunton.

The Clear Winner: Staunton

If you want to immediately identify yourself as "not from around here," just pronounce this city in the Shenandoah Valley the way it's spelled.

• How Outsiders Say It: "STAWN-ton" or "STOW-ton"
• How Virginians Say It: "STAN-ton"

That's right, the "au" is pronounced as a simple, flat "a," just like in the name "Stan." This pronunciation is a classic shibboleth—a linguistic test that separates locals from visitors. The city, which is the birthplace of President Woodrow Wilson and home to the American Shakespeare Center, holds firm to its unique pronunciation, much to the confusion of tourists.

The Honorable Mentions: Other Virginia Tongue-Twisters

While Staunton often takes the top prize, it's far from the only challenge. Here are a few other names that will have visitors scratching their heads.

Norfolk

This is perhaps the second most famous offender, known for its myriad of local pronunciations. The one thing everyone agrees on is how not to say it.

• How Outsiders Say It: "Nor-FOLK" (pronouncing the "L" and hitting the "folk" hard)
• How Locals Say It: "NAW-fok" or "NOR-fok" (The "L" is completely silent, and the second syllable is minimized.)

Wytheville

Located in Southwest Virginia, this town's name seems straightforward until you try it.

• How Outsiders Say It: "WHY-th-vil" or "WITH-ee-vil"
• How Locals Say It: "WITH-vil" (The "y" is pronounced like a short "i," and the "e" at the end is silent.)

Fauquier

This county in Northern Virginia is a remnant of its French roots.

• How Outsiders Say It: "Faw-KWEER" or "Faw-kee-ay"
• How Locals Say It: "Faw-KEER"

Botetourt

Another county with a French name that has been thoroughly Virginian-ized over the centuries.

• How Outsiders Say It: "Bo-teh-TORT" or "Bot-a-TOUR"
• How Locals Say It: "BOT-a-tot" (It rhymes with "what-a-tot.")

From Chincoteague ("SHIN-ko-teeg") to Goochland ("GOOCH-land"), the list goes on. But if you want to master just one, start with Staunton. Getting that one right is the first step to sounding like a true Virginian.