Here are 15 hilarious sayings you’ll only hear in Virginia, capturing local humor, culture, and unique expressions:
1. “Virginia is for Lovers” — but mostly traffic lovers
This classic slogan is often joked about because Virginians tend to love their highways… packed with traffic.
2. “Bet”
Used to mean “okay” or “I agree,” as in “That’s a bet,” which confuses outsiders who expect a wager.
3. “Stamp” = I swear
When a Virginian says, “I stamp,” they mean “I swear” or “I promise,” e.g., “This BBQ is the best, I stamp!”
4. “Slugging”
Refers to carpooling, but locals joke about “not slugging” when they don’t want to make new friends in traffic.
5. “DMV”
Not the Department of Motor Vehicles here; Virginians use it to refer to the entire D.C., Maryland, Virginia metro area.
6. “NOVA”
Short for Northern Virginia, locals say it like everyone knows it’s basically a different state due to anxiety over commuting.
7. “Hokie”
Only in Virginia does a sports fan call themselves a “Hokie” and instantly be recognized as a Virginia Tech fan.
8. “Y’all” but pronounced “Yew-all”
This Southern staple has a local twist in Virginia, with a unique drawl that marks someone as truly Virginian.
9. “Old Dominion”
The nickname for Virginia is proudly used everywhere — like a secret club or royal title.
10. “Whoop”
Southern-style affectionate scolding or cheer, e.g. “I’m gonna whoop your behind!” said lovingly.
11. “Bless Your Heart”
Can be sweet or sarcastic, often used to politely insult someone or express mild sympathy.
12. “Mudhole Road”
A real thing, but the phrase gets used jokingly for any bumpy, rough road in the state.
13. “As nervous as a long-tailed cat in a room full of rocking chairs”
An old Southern expression that paints a vivid picture of anxiety peculiar to Virginia’s rural areas.
14. “The Creek”
Virginian slang for “the river” or any small body of water, usually referencing a favorite fishing or swimming spot.
15. “Right quick”
Instead of quickly or soon, locals say “right quick” to emphasize a speedy action but with a charming old-timey vibe.
These sayings showcase Virginia’s blend of Southern charm, historical depth, and playful local culture, making the state’s language unique and entertaining for insiders and visitors alike.
Sources
(https://www.azquotes.com/quotes/topics/virginia.html)
(https://vadogwood.com/2025/04/11/iconic-virginia-sayings-slang-explained/)
(https://www.loudounhistory.org/history/local-expressions-bygone-piedmont/)
(https://www.southernliving.com/southern-sayings-6534958)
(https://www.reddit.com/r/Virginia/comments/174mo66/how_would_you_describe_virginia_in_one_funny/)
