Here are 15 hilarious sayings you’ll only hear in Maryland, showcasing the unique local charm and humor embedded in Marylander speech:
- Downy Oshun
Meaning “Ocean City” or generally “down to the ocean.” Example: “I’m going downy oshun this weekend!” - Jeet yet?
Short for “Did you eat yet?” It’s a classic friendly greeting. “Mark says, ‘Djeetyet?’ and John replies, ‘No, ju?’” - Jimmy
A male blue crab. Only locals might know a crab is a “Jimmy” by its shape beneath—like the Washington Monument - Bet
Used to say “yes” or “okay” casually. “You coming?” “Bet.” - Sice
Meaning excited or sometimes someone exaggerating. “He siced the story up so much!” - Hon
A term of endearment, especially in Baltimore. “How ya doin’, hon?” It embodies local affection and charm - Bawlmer
Local pronunciation of “Baltimore,” often with a distinct accent and twang - Natty Boh
Short for National Bohemian beer, a beloved local brew. “Will ya grab me a Natty Boh?” - Sno-ball
A snow cone with marshmallow cream, a summertime favorite treat - Chicken neckers
A nickname for tourists or non-locals on the Eastern Shore who catch crabs with chicken necks - Can I pet your dug?
Meaning “Can I pet your dog?”—a quirky local phrase playing with pronunciation - How ’bout dem O’s?
Referring to the Baltimore Orioles baseball team in a spirited way - Lake trout
Actually fried whiting fish in a sandwich form, a local Baltimore specialty - Jeet?
Repeated again as a concise form of “Did you eat yet?” showing how ingrained it is - Beltway
Slang for the highways I-495 (D.C.) or I-695 (Baltimore), reflecting local commuting culture
These sayings capture Maryland’s rich cultural mix, coastal lifestyle, and tight-knit community humor that outsiders rarely hear but give locals a smile.
Sources
(https://www.enjoytravel.com/us/travel-news/guides/maryland-slang)
(https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/state-pride/maryland/maryland-phrases-md)
(https://wheninyourstate.com/maryland/18-maryland-slang-terms-only-locals-will-get/)
(https://www.reddit.com/r/maryland/comments/1l572vu/common_used_phrases_in_maryland/)
(https://www.mentalfloss.com/posts/baltimore-slang-terms)
