LAKE ONTARIO

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What was said

“We're going to be changing the name of Lake Ontario to Lake America.”

Donald Trump · Public remarks · August 26, 2026

What we can verify

1641

The name Ontario appears in the written record by at least 1641.

Indigenous origin

The name is of Indigenous origin. Historical sources differ on the precise source word and translation.

Sources

Natural Resources Canada

Origin of the names of Canada and its provinces and territories — Geographical Names Board of Canada

States the earliest recording of the name was in 1641 and gives the Iroquois word "kanadario", "sparkling water". Page modified 2025.

Government of Ontario

About Ontario — origin of the word "Ontario"

Gives the Iroquois word "kanadario", meaning "sparkling" water.

The Canadian Encyclopedia

Lake Ontario — naming of the lake

States the name was first applied to the lake by Europeans in 1641, and is thought to be Iroquoian, meaning "beautiful lake" or "sparkling water".

Last checked: September 5, 2026

Film credits

Music from #Uppbeat — Simon Folwar, "Enemy at the Gates" · License code: LFL85D3OMIBAVV7S