Virginia—known as the “Old Dominion”—sits at the heart of American history, but its identity is far from old-fashioned. From the bustling suburbs of NoVa to the scenic coasts of Tidewater, the state brims with pride for its unique cultural mix. If you want to sound like you’ve strolled colonial streets and tailgated at rival football games all your life, these 18 local slang terms will guide you to full-fledged Virginiandom.
Old Dominion
The official nickname for Virginia, often dropped in conversation like an inside joke. Whether you’re referencing a sports team or just the state itself, “Old Dominion” says you’re talking true Virginia.
NoVa
Short for Northern Virginia, the sprawling suburban landscape just outside of D.C. Drop “NoVa” if you want to sound like you’ve navigated the Beltway traffic more than a few times.
The 757
An area code-turned-identity for the Tidewater/Hampton Roads region (Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, etc.). When someone says, “I’m from the 757,” they’re repping the coastal side of the Commonwealth.
The 804
Central Virginia’s area code—especially relevant to Richmond. If you name-drop “the 804,” you’re acknowledging the capital city and its surrounding suburbs like a true local.
The Cap City
A nickname for Richmond, acknowledging its role as the state capital. From the historic cobblestones of Shockoe Slip to the murals on Broad Street, “The Cap City” is where modern vibes meet old-school charm.
The Commonwealth
Virginia isn’t a “state,” it’s a Commonwealth. Locals often remind outsiders of this fact with a wink, hinting at centuries of tradition behind the formal distinction.
Tidewater
A coastal region covering the southeastern corner of Virginia—Hampton Roads, the Eastern Shore, and beyond. “Tidewater” conjures images of naval ships, beaches, and that thick summertime humidity.
The Rivah
A casual, endearing way to say “the river,” typically referencing the scenic Rappahannock, Potomac, or James. Going “down to the Rivah” for a weekend getaway is practically a rite of passage.
C’ville
Short for Charlottesville, home to the University of Virginia (UVA). Between picturesque mountain views and Thomas Jefferson’s legacy, “C’ville” is where you’ll find plenty of Wahoos strolling the Downtown Mall.
Wahoo / ’Hoo
A nickname for UVA students, alumni, or fans—legend has it that opposing schools once taunted UVA teams by calling them “Rowdy Wahoos,” and the name stuck. Shout “Go ’Hoos!” in C’ville, and you’ll fit right in.
Hokie
A fan or student of Virginia Tech, located in Blacksburg (aka “The ’Burg”). If you hear “Let’s go, Hokies!” booming across a tailgate, you know you’ve landed in the heart of Southwest Virginia.
The ’Burg
Shorthand for Blacksburg, the college town nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Known for Virginia Tech, it’s also your go-to spot for scenic hikes and serious football fandom.
The Fan
A historic neighborhood in Richmond, named for the way the streets fan out from Belvidere Street. Packed with row houses, restaurants, and that classic RVA charm, “The Fan” is iconic Cap City living.
Beltway Bandits
A tongue-in-cheek nod to the government contractors, lobbyists, and assorted professionals living around the D.C. Beltway (especially in NoVa). If you’re calling them “Bandits,” you’ve definitely seen the traffic jams first-hand.
The DMV
No, not the Department of Motor Vehicles—this is the shorthand for D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. If you live in Northern Virginia, you’re living in “the DMV,” a regional identity all its own.
Two Up, Two Down
Refers to the shape of the state’s abbreviation, “VA,” which looks like two arrows up and two down when stylized. You’ll see this on T-shirts, hats, and bumper stickers as a hometown flex.
Cut on (the light)
A Southern-tinged phrase meaning “turn on” the light (or any other switch). If a friend from Virginia says, “Cut on the TV,” they’re not planning to saw it in half—they just want to watch the game.
Bless Your Heart
A sweet-sounding phrase that can convey genuine sympathy—or a very polite way of saying “You’re clueless, but I’m too nice to say it.” Virginians keep it friendly, but context is key when you hear those three little words.
These 18 expressions offer a peek into the heart of Virginia’s culture—from the modern hustle of NoVa to the relaxed coastal atmosphere of the Tidewater region. By blending historical pride with a dash of Southern hospitality, Virginians have forged a lingo that’s unique, warm, and unmistakably theirs. Master these phrases, and you’ll feel right at home in the Old Dominion—where “two up, two down” always holds a special place in the local spirit.
