Youghiogheny

Youghiogheny is a Native American word of Iroquois origin, meaning "stream flowing the wrong way" or "a place where a stream meets a larger body of water". It is most famously associated with the Youghiogheny River, a tributary of the Monongahela River in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. The river itself is known for its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities, including whitewater rafting and kayaking in its upper sections.

The name "Youghiogheny" has also been applied to other geographical features, such as Youghiogheny Lake in Maryland, which was formed by the damming of the Youghiogheny River. The area around the river has a rich history, including early settlement by European colonists and significant industrial development, particularly in coal mining and steel production. The Youghiogheny Glass Company, a prominent stained glass manufacturer, also took its name from the river.

Pronunciation of "Youghiogheny" can be challenging for many, often sounding like "Yock-uh-gay-nee" or "Yock-hee-gay-nee". The spelling reflects the historical transcription of Native American sounds into English. The word and its associated places are significant in the regional identity of southwestern Pennsylvania and western Maryland.