Maryland is more than just a place to crack open steamed crabs and douse them in Old Bay—it’s a state brimming with history, diverse cultures, and proud local traditions. From the waves lapping the Eastern Shore to the bustling corridors of the Baltimore-Washington region, each corner of the Old Line State brings its own flavor. To truly appreciate life by the Chesapeake, here are 18 slang expressions that will have you sounding like you’ve lived in Maryland all your life.
The Old Line State
Maryland’s official nickname, reputedly from the state’s Revolutionary War “line” regiments. Locals still use it as a badge of pride to highlight Maryland’s storied past.
Crabcakes & Football
A playful nod to the line from Wedding Crashers—“Crabcakes and football, that’s what Maryland does!”—sums up two major local obsessions. Say it loud, and you’ll earn an approving nod from fellow Marylanders.
Natty Boh
Short for National Bohemian, the once-Baltimore-brewed beer featuring the winking one-eyed logo. Even if it’s no longer produced right in the city, sipping a “Natty Boh” remains a cherished local pastime.
Old Bay
The iconic seasoning blend beloved for coating everything from crabs to french fries. In Maryland, you’d be hard-pressed to find a pantry without a canister of Old Bay front and center.
Downy Oshin
A Baltimore way of saying “down the ocean,” meaning heading to Ocean City or other beach spots along the Eastern Shore. If you’re “goin’ downy oshin,” you’re probably packing flip-flops and a cooler.
Hon
A term of endearment often associated with the Baltimore accent—“How ya doin’, hon?” Epitomized by beehive hairdos and cat-eye glasses in the city’s Hampden neighborhood, it’s all part of that “Bawlmer” charm.
DMV
Refers to the D.C., Maryland, Virginia metropolitan area. If someone says they live in the “DMV,” they’re likely commuting on the Beltway and navigating three-state traffic on a daily basis.
Bawlmer
A local pronunciation of “Baltimore,” especially if you’re from the city proper. Expect that distinct accent, which drops consonants and adds a certain twang: “Welcome ta Bawlmer, hon!”
The Beltway
Officially I-495 around D.C. or I-695 around Baltimore. Locals differentiate carefully—“the Beltway” can mean highway headaches in two separate metro areas.
The Eastern Shore
The chunk of Maryland east of the Chesapeake Bay. When someone says, “We’re heading to the Shore,” think slower pace, fresh seafood, and scenic water views.
Utz
A brand of potato chips and snacks, ubiquitous at crab feasts and picnics. If you’re grabbing some “Utz and a Boh,” you’re basically living the Maryland summer dream.
Lake Trout
A Baltimore specialty that’s actually fried whiting—no trout involved. Order a “lake trout sub” and get ready for a crispy, satisfying fish sandwich that’s a true local classic.
Jimmies
The chocolate sprinkles you put on ice cream. While much of the U.S. might say “sprinkles,” in Maryland (and parts of the Mid-Atlantic), it’s “jimmies” or bust.
Route 50
The highway that takes you straight to Ocean City. If someone says, “We’re hoppin’ on 50,” they’re probably racing the sunrise to hit the beach and beat the weekend crowds.
Sobo / Fed Hill
Baltimore neighborhoods—South Baltimore (Sobo) and Federal Hill—famous for rowhouses, local pubs, and weekend nightlife. If you hear, “I’m headin’ to Sobo tonight,” it’s bar-hopping time.
Western Shore
The western side of the Chesapeake Bay, essentially the rest of Maryland outside the Eastern Shore. If you’re a Shore native, you might poke fun at those from the “Western Shore” for missing out on the laid-back coastal vibe.
O’s
Short for the Baltimore Orioles, the MLB team with a dedicated following at Camden Yards. When you hear, “How ’bout dem O’s?” locals are pumped for baseball season—even if they’re enduring heartbreak.
Down the Line
A phrase used for heading out of the city, often into county areas. “We’re goin’ down the line” might mean traveling south on I-95 or heading deep into suburbia to visit family.
These expressions offer a glimpse into a state shaped by the tidal rhythms of the Chesapeake and the hum of urban life. From crab shacks on the Eastern Shore to Natty Boh nights in the city, Marylanders embrace their region’s distinct traditions with pride and a dash of friendly humor. Slip these terms into your conversation, and you’ll find yourself welcomed like a local—“Hon” and all.
