A Hoosier is the official demonym for the people of the U.S. state of Indiana. The origin of the term is a matter of debate, but it was in general use by the 1840s, having been popularized by Richmond resident John Finleys 1833 poem. Some possible origins of the term include:

• Indian word for corn: Joseph Wright derived Hoosier from an Indian word for corn, "hoosa." Indiana flatboatmen taking corn or maize to New Orleans came to be known as "hoosa men" or "hoosiers".

• Dialect term: It is safe to conclude that the Hoosher