Hoosier

American  

[hoo-zher] / ˈhu ʒər /

noun

1. a native or inhabitant of Indiana (used as a nickname).

2. (usually lowercase) any awkward, unsophisticated person, especially a rustic.

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Hoosier British  

/ ˈhuːʒɪə /

noun

1. a native or inhabitant of Indiana

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Other Word Forms

• Hoosierdom noun

Etymology

Origin of Hoosier

An Americanism dating back to 1920–30; of uncertain origin

Example Sentences

There may be only two Hoosier fans in the entire country who didn’t immediately count the play as their all-time favorite: Mendoza’s parents.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 20, 2026

While Mellencamp is laser-focused on Indiana’s on-field exploits, some of the current Hoosier players could use a history lesson on the rock star.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 16, 2026

Early in the fourth quarter, Indiana’s defense forced a three-and-out, blocked Oregon’s punt and recovered the ball 7 yards from the end zone, giving the Hoosier offense its third short field of the night.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 10, 2026

It was the first touchdown scored by a Hoosier at the Rose Bowl in program history, the perfect way to establish Indiana’s domination.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 1, 2026

“An excellent point. As far as I’m concerned, it’s not even worth looking at. Not when you’ve got Hoosier Hill. ”

From "All The Bright Places" by Jennifer Niven