The Many Nicknames of the Montreal Canadiens: Habs, Les Glorieux & More (2025 Guide)
The Many Nicknames of the Montreal Canadiens: Habs, Les Glorieux & More (2025 Guide)
Few sports teams in the world have as many beloved nicknames as the Montreal Canadiens, one of the oldest and most storied franchises in the National Hockey League (NHL). Known worldwide as the Habs, this team’s nicknames reflect Quebec’s deep hockey culture, French heritage, and over a century of tradition.
Let’s explore the origins, meanings, and cultural impact behind each name — from Les Habitants to La Sainte-Flanelle.
Why Are the Montreal Canadiens Called “The Habs”?
The nickname “Habs” is short for “Les Habitants,” a French term referring to early French settlers who farmed the St. Lawrence River valley in the 17th century.
It represents pride, tradition, and the team’s deep connection to French-Canadian identity.
Origin Story
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The term “Habs” reportedly originated from a New York sportswriter in the 1920s who misunderstood the “H” in the Canadiens’ logo as standing for Habitants.
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In reality, the “H” stands for “Hockey” in Club de Hockey Canadien.
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Despite the mix-up, “Habs” stuck — and it remains the team’s most recognized nickname worldwide.
“Habs” is not just a name — it’s an identity. It connects fans to Quebec’s roots, language, and love of hockey.
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The Canadiens’ Other Nicknames (and Their Meanings)
Here’s a look at the team’s most common nicknames, both in English and French, along with their cultural significance:
| Nickname | Translation / Meaning | Origin / Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Les Canadiens | “The Canadians” | The team’s official name, dating back to its founding in 1909. |
| Habs / Les Habitants | “The settlers” | Refers to early Quebec farmers; became a global moniker. |
| Le Bleu-Blanc-Rouge | “The blue-white-red” | Inspired by the team’s colors, first used in the 1910s. |
| La Sainte-Flanelle | “The holy flannel” | A reverent nickname for the team jersey, symbolizing pride and legacy. |
| Le Tricolore | “The tricolor” | A nod to the uniform’s three colors, echoing France’s flag. |
| Les Glorieux | “The glorious ones” | Refers to the team’s 24 Stanley Cup championships, the most in NHL history. |
| Le Grand Club | “The great club” | A respectful term used by fans to emphasize the Canadiens’ legendary status. |
| Le CH | Short for Club de hockey Canadien | Represents the team’s iconic “C” and “H” logo. |
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A Symbol of Quebec’s Cultural Identity
Each nickname tells part of the Canadiens’ story — a reflection of how hockey is woven into Quebec’s history and pride.
The team represents not just Montreal, but the entire French-speaking world of hockey fans.
Key Facts About the Canadiens
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1909 (as part of the National Hockey Association, NHA) |
| Stanley Cups | 24 — the most by any team in the NHL |
| Arena | Bell Centre (Centre Bell), Montreal, Quebec |
| Team Colors | Blue, white, and red |
| Official Name | Club de hockey Canadien |
The Canadiens’ nicknames echo through generations — from Maurice “Rocket” Richard to modern stars — connecting Quebec’s past to its future.
Sources: NHL.com, Montreal Canadiens History
Visual Snapshot: The Canadiens’ Identity Over Time
| Era | Nickname Popularized | Cultural Significance |
|---|---|---|
| 1910s–1930s | Les Canadiens, Le Bleu-Blanc-Rouge | Early establishment in NHA/NHL. |
| 1940s–1950s | Les Glorieux, La Sainte-Flanelle | Golden age of championships. |
| 1970s–1990s | Habs, Le Grand Club | Rise of media and fan culture. |
| 2000s–Present | Le CH | Iconic branding and modern identity. |
Global Recognition: “Habs” Beyond Canada
The Canadiens are one of the most recognized hockey franchises globally, alongside teams like the New York Rangers and Chicago Blackhawks.
Their nickname “Habs” has transcended language — appearing in pop culture, songs, and even as shorthand for Montreal itself.
Type “Habs” into a search bar, and Google instantly knows you mean the Montreal Canadiens.
Sources:
The Canadiens’ Legacy in Numbers
| Metric | Stat (as of 2025) |
|---|---|
| Years Active | 116 years |
| Stanley Cups | 24 |
| Retired Jerseys | 15 |
| Total Wins | 3,500+ |
| Most Popular Nickname | “Habs” |
| Global Fan Reach | Over 10 million worldwide |
The Montreal Canadiens’ nicknames symbolize more than just a team — they capture a cultural movement that spans generations.
Frequently asked questions
Why are the Montreal Canadiens called the Habs?
“Habs” is short for “Les Habitants” — referring to French Canadian settlers (literally “the inhabitants”) in 17th-18th century New France. The nickname acknowledges the Canadiens’ role as the historic team of French Quebec. Popularized by US sportswriters in the 1920s misinterpreting the H in the team logo (it stands for “Hockey” not “Habitants”).
What does Les Glorieux mean?
Translation: “The Glorious Ones.” The Canadiens’ French-language nickname celebrating their record 24 Stanley Cup championships (the most of any NHL team). Used by Quebec broadcasters and fans, especially during the dynasty years of the 1970s when the team won 4 Cups in a row (1976-1979).
How many Stanley Cups have the Canadiens won?
24 Stanley Cup championships — the most of any NHL franchise. Last Cup: 1993. The 1976-1979 dynasty (4 in a row) is the most recent dominant era. Toronto Maple Leafs are second with 13 (last in 1967). Detroit Red Wings third with 11.
What does CH stand for on the Canadiens logo?
Club de Hockey Canadien — the team’s legal corporate name in French. The logo dates from 1917, the team’s NHL founding year. The H in the centre stands for “Hockey,” not “Habitants” as a common myth claims.
What is the oldest NHL team?
The Montreal Canadiens. Founded December 4, 1909 (originally in the National Hockey Association). They joined the NHL on its founding November 26, 1917 as one of four charter teams. The Canadiens are the only original NHL team still in their founding city under their original name.
