What Does ‘Paname’ Mean: The Slang Name for Paris and Its Cultural Roots

On Language

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For a city that thrives on knowledge and lively discussion, the silence surrounding the origin of the nickname “Paname” has piqued my curiosity. (I mean, Parisians can debate for hours over the nuances of wine grapes and the perfect cheese tray, lol.)

The Charm of Paname

Would a rose by any other name smell as sweet? In Paris, we have the answer: absolutely! The nickname for the city is “Paname,” and it still evokes the wonder and beauty of delicious Paris. (FYI, it’s pronounced like the old airline, though I like to add an -ay at the end for some reason. But don’t do this; it’s not technically correct, lol.)

The Origin of the Name Paname

So, what is the origin of this popular slang term for Paris? In my past seven years in this incredible city, I’ve asked countless people this seemingly simple question—waiters, bartenders, journalists, artists, businesspeople, bakers, chefs—and I’m always met with head bobs indicating confusion or pursed lips suggesting it’s too complicated to explain. But, of course, it’s not! The origin is likely knowable, and since we love words, origin stories, and cultural insights, let’s dive into the theories surrounding the Paris slang name “Paname.”

Cultural Points for Paname

• There’s a cool brewery along the Seine with great barbecue and views called Paname Brewery.
• Shanguy song Désolée (Paris/Paname)
• Ayo’s song Paname
• Renaud’s first album is titled Amoureux de Paname.
• Jean Ferrat’s song Regarde-toi Paname (also, his ‘stache is amazing!).

Exploring the Theories Behind Paname

Here are some intriguing theories to consider the next time you hear “Paname” tossed around. If you’re curious about everything Paname—an etymology enthusiast over here—follow along as I uncover more, if possible lol. Although I will say my research turned out to be a short pursuit, here are my findings.

1. The Panama Canal Connection

Several theories link “Paname” to the Panama Canal’s construction. Here are two notable interpretations:

• a. One theory suggests the name stems from a political and financial scandal involving the canal’s builders, who were referred to as “Panamists.” This term was eventually shortened, and since many were based in Paris, the name stuck to refer to Parisians.

• b. Another interesting theory posits that French workers returning from Panama popularized a specific type of hat, which became associated with wealthy Parisians. Additionally, lexicologist Jean-Paul Colin notes that “panama” in old French slang means “huge,” suggesting Paris as a vast city—thus “Paname.”

2. Old Name Origins

Some people suggested that “Paname” is an old name dating back to the city’s founding, potentially with Latin origins. While this theory lacks any substantial backing, its frequent mention merits inclusion here.

Voilà!

The connection to the Panama scandal and the iconic hat does seem quite fitting and distinctly French, lol. However, if you discover more about the origin of “Paname,” let me know! Otherwise, it seems a bit case closed for now.

If you find yourself in Paname or planning a trip, profite! (And definitely learn some more slang so you don’t sound like you only studied school French. The spoken language in Paris is very different from what we learn in school —trust me. I mean that classic France lol!)

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