If you have fallen here, it’s probably because you asked THE existential question: “But which countries start with W?” You are not alone! This intriguing quest often stirs minds during word games or general knowledge quizzes. Spoiler alert: the list isn’t very long. But hang tight, we’re going to dissect all this with a good dose of humor and some surprising facts.
Why are there so few countries that start with W?
First thing to understand: the letter W is a little rebel in the alphabet. Rarely used in French, it has more success in Germanic and Anglo-Saxon languages. The result? Few country names start with this letter. And that’s exactly what makes this quest even more interesting. It’s like looking for a needle in a haystack… except the haystack is tiny.
The List of Countries and Territories Starting with W
So, who is hiding behind this mysterious letter? Spoiler (once again): there is no sovereign country whose name starts with W. But don’t leave the page just yet, as a few territories and regions come to save the day.
1. Wallis and Futuna
Located in the Pacific Ocean, Wallis and Futuna is a French overseas territory. Yes, France is everywhere! Wallis and Futuna consists of three main islands (Wallis, Futuna, and Alofi) lost between New Caledonia and Samoa.
Fun fact: There are more cows than inhabitants on some islands! Perfect for those who enjoy tranquility… and fresh milk.
2. Wales
Okay, technically it’s a constituent country of the United Kingdom and not an independent country. But in our hearts, Wales deserves its place here. Cardiff, its iconic red dragon, its medieval castles… impossible to overlook.
Why visit?
- For its breathtaking landscapes: mountains, valleys, and wild beaches.
- For fans of Arthurian legends (Merlin might have hung out there).
- For rugby!
3. Western Sahara
Beware, minefield (in the geopolitical sense of the term). Western Sahara is a non-self-governing territory claimed by Morocco and the Polisario Front. But technically, it starts with a W in English, so we’re keeping it on the list.
Summary table of territories in W:
| Name | Status | Interesting Fact |
|---|---|---|
| Wallis and Futuna | French territory | More cows than inhabitants |
| Wales | Constituent country of the United Kingdom | Red dragon as a national symbol |
| Western Sahara | Disputed territory | Huge desert with giant dunes |
Why is it important to know this?
Okay, maybe knowing Wallis and Futuna won’t land you a job (though…). But in a general knowledge quiz, it could save the day. And it’s always classy to throw in unexpected info at a party. Imagine: “Did you know that Wallis and Futuna is the only territory starting with W under French sovereignty?” Bam, everyone’s listening to you.
A Few Cities Starting with W
If the list of countries is short, the list of cities is more generous. Here’s a quick overview:
- Washington D.C. – Capital of the United States, definitely a must-see.
- Wellington – Capital of New Zealand, with its hills and sheep.
- Wuhan – Chinese city that became sadly famous in 2020, but rich in history.
These cities, on the other hand, play in the big leagues.
How to Shine in Social Settings with This Info
Here are a few tips to impress those around you with your new knowledge:
- Board games and quizzes: Words count triple if you’re the only one who knows Wallis and Futuna.
- Geopolitical discussions: Casually slip that you know the situation in Western Sahara (guaranteed effect).
- Travel and discoveries: Plan a trip to Wales and share your medieval adventures.
And After That?
If you enjoyed diving into this unexpected geographical universe, why not explore other rare letters? Who knows, maybe the letter X has even more surprises in store for you.
Don’t forget to share this article with your quiz-obsessed friends. Who knows, you might save their day someday!
Pascal Petibon, born in 1980 in Lyon, is a renowned journalist and author, passionate about information and communication. After earning a degree in journalism from the University of Paris, he quickly joined various editorial teams, where he became known for his sharp analysis and clear writing style.
