The Origin and Meaning of the Mississippi Nicknames The American citizens who live in, or who come from Mississippi, are referred to as Mississippians.. The history, origin and meaning of each of the state's nicknames are as follows: The Magnolia State The official nickname Magnolia alludes to the beautiful flowers that were after French botanist Pierre Magnol. Magnolia grandiflora is the official state flower of Mississippi The Mud-cat State The Mud-cat is a popular name for the bullhead catfish which is found in waters of the Mississippi River. The Eagle State This name derives from the Mississippi Coat of Arms which depicts a Bald Eagle clasping arrows and an olive branch in its talons. The eagle represents power and strength and the olive branch, peace. The Bayou State The Bayou nickname is shared with Louisiana and refers to the many lowlands in the region that have many bayous along the great Mississippi River. A bayou is a waterway, such as a creek or small river, that is a tributary of a larger body of water. |