12 Phrases Only a True Virginian Says and Understands

Virginia is a state with one foot in the South and the other firmly planted in history—and the way locals talk reflects it. From beach towns to the Blue Ridge Mountains, Virginians have a language full of heritage, hospitality, and a few quirks that outsiders might scratch their heads at. If you’ve ever debated the best BBQ, casually dropped “the Commonwealth,” or told someone “it’s just up 29,” you’re speaking Virginian.

1. “It’s the Commonwealth.”

Translation: Virginia isn’t a state—it’s officially a Commonwealth.
Yes, we’re proud of that distinction.

2. “Bless your heart.”

Translation: Could mean sympathy, could mean sass.
Context (and tone) is everything.

3. “The DMV.”

Translation: Not the Department of Motor Vehicles, but D.C.-Maryland-Virginia.
If you’re from Northern Virginia, you live in “the DMV.”

4. “Virginia is for Lovers.”

Translation: Our iconic state slogan.
It’s on bumper stickers, billboards, and probably your aunt’s fridge magnet.

5. “The Blue Ridge.”

Translation: The mountains that define western Virginia.
Every local has a favorite hiking trail or overlook.

6. “Down in the Tidewater.”

Translation: Refers to the Norfolk–Virginia Beach–Hampton Roads region.
Flat land, salty air, and a whole lot of naval bases.

7. “We’re going to King’s Dominion.”

Translation: The ultimate childhood theme park pilgrimage for Virginians.

8. “We’re meeting up at Wawa.”

Translation: The convenience store that doubles as a late-night hangout and road trip lifeline.

9. “Up 29 / Down 81 / Over on 64.”

Translation: Directions are given entirely in terms of highways.
If you don’t know the interstate numbers, you’re lost.

10. “That’s good eatin’.”

Translation: Usually said after BBQ, fried chicken, or a church potluck plate.

11. “Hokies or Hoos?”

Translation: The eternal college rivalry—Virginia Tech Hokies vs. UVA Cavaliers.
You must pick a side.

12. “First in flight? Nah, first in freedom.”

Translation: A jab at North Carolina’s license plate claim.
Virginians love to remind people Jamestown was ours.

If you’ve ever said these while sipping sweet tea on a porch, stuck in traffic on I-95, or yelling “Go Hokies!” or “Wahoowa!” on game day, you’re fluent in Virginian. Here, history runs deep, pride runs deeper, and the phrases are as much a part of the culture as the mountains, the bay, and the battlefields.