The Proper Way to Say Pike Place Market
Don’t Make This Mistake on Jeopardy
Ken Jennings, the host of Jeopardy, had to correct a contestant this week on the correct way to say Pike Place Market. During an episode, the clue mentioned the 1960s plan to replace this iconic Seattle market with high-rises, which could have changed the course of history for Starbucks. The correct response was “What is Pike Place Market?” However, contestant Dan Moren from Massachusetts said, “What is Pike’s Place Market?”
This small mistake was a big deal for Seattleites, who are sticklers for the correct name. Jennings quickly corrected Moren, emphasizing that it’s “PIKE Place, not Pike’s Place.”
The Aftermath
A clip of this exchange went viral on Reddit, sparking a discussion about the importance of getting the name right. The Seattle Times even covered the story, delving into the history of Pike Place Market and why people often add an “s” to business names like Costcos or Fred Meyers.
It’s Personal
For Jennings, a Seattle native, this correction was more than just a grammar lesson. It was personal. He takes pride in his city and enjoys showcasing clues related to Seattle and the Pacific Northwest on the show. Hearing the market’s name butchered by an outsider was clearly a sore spot for him.
While the market may have been named after John Pike, a pioneer builder, the official name does not include an “s.” It’s Pike Place Market, and that’s how it should be said.
Final Thoughts
For Moren, the mistake cost him nothing but pride. He may have lost the round, but he walked away with $33,500 as a two-day champion. As for Jennings, well, he continues to reign as the smartest person in the room, especially when it comes to correcting people on the proper pronunciation of Seattle landmarks.
