So just what is the Dildo Newfoundland name origin and who the heck came up with such a wild name for a town? The answer still is no one really knows how the town of Dildo Newfoundland originally got its name, but we have some ideas.

Mispronunciation or Misinterpretation: Some researchers have guessed that the word might be a mispronunciation of “doldrums,” referring to calm seas, or a misinterpretation of the French name for nearby Dildo Island: “De l’île de l’eau”.

Oar Pegs: One theory suggests that the name Dildo could have originated from the term used for wooden oar pegs in boats. These pegs were called dildos, and early English explorers might have thought the land formation in the area resembled these oar pegs.

Perhaps a French corruption?

Another theory posits that the name might be a corruption of the French name for nearby Dildo Island, “De l’île de l’eau,” which over time became Dildo. This theory suggests a linguistic evolution similar to other Newfoundland towns with anglicized French names.

Nautical and Other Meanings: Historically, “dildo” was a word used for any cylindrical object, from nautical pins to test tubes. It was also a type of tree and a nonsense syllable used in song refrains. The island’s name could have referred to any of these meanings.

Humorous Intent by Explorers: It is noted that Captain James Cook and his assistant Michael Lane, who mapped Newfoundland in the 1760s, often displayed a sense of humor in the place names they chose, not shying away from names that might offend sensitive readers.

This suggests that the name could have been chosen with a humorous intent….really!

Despite the various theories, the true origin of the name Dildo remains a mystery. It has been suggested that any one of these stories could be the origin, or perhaps none of them are. The lack of a definitive origin story invites speculation and imagination, contributing to the conversation and intrigue surrounding the name.

So it seems the origin of the name Dildo, Newfoundland, is not definitively known, and it is subject to a range of theories and speculations. The true origin may never be known, and this uncertainty adds to the town’s notoriety and interest.