People from Alabama are generally called Alabamians. However, residents of the state also use specific nicknames that often denote their allegiance to one of Alabama's prominent university football teams: Blazers, Bammers, or Barners.
General Term for Residents
The most common and formal demonym for someone from Alabama is an Alabamian. This term applies to any person residing in or originating from the state, regardless of their specific regional ties or university affiliations.
University-Specific Nicknames
In Alabama, the culture of college football runs deep, and many residents adopt nicknames associated with their favored university's team. These terms are more informal and are primarily used among fans and within local communities to express support and rivalry.
- Blazers: This term typically refers to supporters of the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Blazers football team.
- Bammers: Commonly used to identify fans of the University of Alabama Crimson Tide football team. This nickname is widely recognized across the state and beyond.
- Barners: This nickname is generally associated with fans of the Auburn University Tigers football team, especially in reference to the long-standing rivalry with the University of Alabama.
It's important to understand that these football-related nicknames are not interchangeable with "Alabamians." Choosing one of these specific terms implies a particular loyalty to a university's athletic program.
Summary of Nicknames
| Nickname | Associated Group/Meaning | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Alabamian | General resident of Alabama | Formal, widely accepted |
| Blazers | Supporters of UAB Blazers | Informal, university football allegiance |
| Bammers | Supporters of University of Alabama Crimson Tide | Informal, university football allegiance |
| Barners | Supporters of Auburn University Tigers | Informal, university football allegiance |
Choosing Your Nickname
For those new to the state or looking to understand the local lingo, it's advised to learn about the major university football teams and their passionate fan bases before adopting one of the team-specific nicknames. Your choice of "Blazer," "Bammer," or "Barner" will immediately signal your football allegiance within the state.
