Why is Chicago Named Chicago?
Chicago’s name comes from a Native American word. Long ago, different tribes lived near the area where the city grew. One group called the people nearby the place where there is a strong smell of wild onion plants. They used a word that sounded like “shikaakwa” in their language.
When Europeans arrived, they heard that word and began using it as the name of the place. Over time, the spelling changed a bit, and people started calling the city Chicago.
What does it mean?
- The original word is thought to refer to the wild onions or alliums that grew in the area.
- So, Chicago’s name is connected to the land and plants that were there long ago.
Fun fact
Chicago is also known for its famous skyline, big parks, and Deep-Dish Pizza—but its name comes from that old word from before the city existed!