Maryland isn’t just a state—it’s a whole personality. We’ve got Old Bay in our veins, opinions about bridge traffic, and a deep, passionate relationship with blue crabs. Outsiders may think they get us, but if you can’t pronounce “Baltimore” the way we do, you’re not fooling anyone.
These words aren’t just part of the language—they’re part of the culture. If they don’t sound familiar, you’re probably still stuck in traffic on the Bay Bridge wondering what “downy oshun” means.
1. Hon
A classic Baltimore greeting. Equal parts affectionate and sassy. If someone calls you “hon,” you’re officially in the club.
2. Downy Oshun
That’s “Down the Ocean” for the uninitiated. Translation: Ocean City, the summer escape for Marylanders everywhere.
3. Old Bay
The state seasoning. Goes on crabs, fries, popcorn, wings, and possibly your soul.
4. Natty Boh
National Bohemian beer—aka Natty Boh. Not fancy, but iconic. The mustachioed mascot is practically a state symbol.
5. Crabcakes
Not just food—a way of life. And yes, we will judge you if you eat them outside Maryland.
6. The Bay
That’s the Chesapeake Bay. If you have to ask “which bay,” you’re not from here.
7. The Bridge
Also known as the Bay Bridge. If you’ve white-knuckled your way across it, congrats—you’re officially a Marylander.
8. O’s
Our beloved Orioles. We’ve cheered for them through the highs, the lows, and the “maybe next years.”
9. DMV
Not the place where you get your license. Around here, it means D.C., Maryland, Virginia—the tri-state region we complain about but love anyway.
10. Berger Cookies
A Baltimore delicacy: a soft vanilla cookie buried under a mountain of chocolate fudge. Outsiders don’t get it.
11. The Y
Short for the Susquehanna River’s unique shape at the top of the Bay. Locals know.
12. Boardwalk Fries
A sacred Ocean City tradition: hand-cut fries smothered in vinegar and Old Bay.
13. Baltimor (or) Bawlmer
How you actually say “Baltimore.” Bonus points if you can drop a syllable or two.
14. Pit Beef
Smoky, juicy, piled-high beef on a bun with horseradish. Maryland barbecue is its own thing—don’t compare it to Carolina.
15. Terrapins
Our fearless mascot and proof that only Maryland could make a turtle look tough.
Maryland isn’t just about geography—it’s about grit, charm, and a whole lot of Old Bay. If you don’t know your Natty Boh from your pit beef, or you call it “Baltimore” with perfect diction, you’ve still got some learnin’ to do…