Short Answer 
The prefix “new” in city names signifies modern or distinct versions of earlier settlements, a trend that started in the U.S. and extends globally. Prominent cities like New York and New Orleans, as well as lesser-known places such as New Plymouth and New Glasgow, exemplify this naming convention that conveys freshness and modernity.
Step 1: Understanding the Naming Convention
The prefix “new” is a common naming convention for cities, particularly in the United States. This practice originated to help distinguish these cities from older ones with similar names. This means that when new settlements emerged, they often adopted the prefix to signify that they were modern or different versions of existing locations.
Step 2: Examples of Major Cities
There are numerous cities around the globe that start with “new.” Some of the most prominent examples include:
- New York
- New Orleans
- New Delhi
- New Haven
These cities highlight the widespread use of the prefix and its connection to their historical backgrounds.
Step 3: Lesser-Known Cities and Current Usage
In addition to the well-known cities, many lesser-known towns also begin with “new.” These include:
- New Plymouth (New Zealand)
- New Glasgow (Canada)
- New Bern (United States)
- New Westminster (Canada)
This trend continues today as new cities or developments often adopt the “new” prefix to convey a sense of freshness and modernity.