Jamaicans have a unique way of naming people and places – often drawing from local events and circumstances. Below are some funny named communities in Jamaica that Jamaicans have given to their communities, each with its own story and charm.

1. Arawak, St. Ann

• Named because of Arawak (Taino) remains found there, Arawak in St. Ann pays homage to Jamaica’s indigenous heritage.

2. Above Rocks, St. Catherine

• Perched high above its surroundings, Above Rocks provides spectacular views. The name evokes images of a community set on elevated terrain, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle below.

3. Gimme-Me-Bit, Clarendon

• Gimme-Me-Bit is a quiet rural village located near the historic Milk River Spa in Clarendon. The name might be perplexing, but legend has it that this community got it’s name from the passion of African Jamaicans who had to fight the system of their colonial masters in order to get access to the arable land in that area that is obviosuly good for planting and cattle-rearing – which remains the community’s main economic activity today.

4. Mocho, Clarendon

5. Pratville, Manchester

6. Porus, Manchester

7. Race Course, Clarendon

• Originally the site of horse racing events, Race Course retains its name from those early days. Today, it’s a peaceful community with echoes of its spirited past.

8.The Corn Puss Gap, St. Thomas

• Found in St. Thomas, Corn Puss Gap got its name from a legend where a lost hiker caught, ‘corned’, and ate a cat to avoid dying of starvation. There may be zero truth to this story, but it sure led to a funny Jamaican place name.

9. Wait-A-Bit, Trelawny

• Wait-A-Bit is located in rural Trelawny. This community earned its name from the wait-a-bit thorn, known locally as “makka.” This prickly bush is notorious for leaving scratches or getting caught in clothing. It’s a name that perfectly captures the local flora’s sense of humor.

10. Nonsuch, Portland

11. Labour-In-Vain, St. Elizabeth

• Known as the Breadbasket Parish, St. Elizabeth’s district of Labour-In-Vain is where crops are particularly difficult to grow due to the lack of rain. The name reflects the challenging farming conditions.

12.Harry Watch, Manchester

• This rural district was named after Harry, who guarded a great house during slavery. Formed from six English colonists’ properties, Harry Watch is now a tiny farming district with essential services for its residents.

13.Time and Patience, Trelawny

• Located in Trelawny, this community was established after the abolition of slavery in 1838. The name reflects the belief that time and patience can work wonders, embodying the community’s optimistic spirit.

14. Flagaman, St. Elizabeth

• No one agrees on how Flagaman got its name. One story attributes it to a British admiral’s ship, while others say it’s a corruption of “flog a man,” possibly referring to disputes or local love stories. Either way, it’s a name that invites speculation.

15. Fat Hog Quarter, Hanover

• Named for the large number of hogs that used to populate the area, Fat Hog Quarter is a reminder of its agricultural past.

16. Dolphin’s Head, Hanover

• When looked at from east to west, the 1789 ft. mountain resembles a dolphin’s nose, face, and fins. It’s a natural wonder that inspired its whimsical name.

17. Me-No-Sen-You-No-Come, St. Elizabeth

• Me-No-Sen-You-No-Come, a village deep in the Cockpit Country, literally means “If I don’t send for you, don’t come.” Founded by runaway slaves, this community thrived despite colonial attempts to destroy it. Today, it’s a testament to resilience and self-sufficiency.

18. Far Enough, Clarendon

• This community’s name comes from the phrase “far enough from courts and kings,” credited to a Scotsman who sought a peaceful retreat.

19. Tan an’ See, Trelawny

• Meaning literally ‘stand and see,’ Tan an’ See offers beautiful views of open land, inviting visitors to pause and take in the scenery.

20. See-Me-No-More, Portland

• Located in Portland, this community’s name comes from its deep valley. Before roads were built, anyone crossing the valley would disappear from view, hence the name. It’s a place where you could easily vanish from sight!

These names not only mark geographical locations but also tell stories and evoke the rich cultural tapestry of Jamaica. Each name has a tale behind it, reflecting the history, humor, and heritage of the Jamai8can people.