13 Phrases That Will Make You Swear Marylanders Have Their Own Language

Depending on which region in Maryland you live in, you may be guilty of using the following phrases. It seems each region has its own unique blend of Maryland slang. From chicken neckers to hand warshin’, these Maryland phrases make it seem like Marylanders have a language all their own. Have you ever used any of these weird things Marylanders say?

1. Hi, Hon!

Hon is used as a term of endearment. If someone calls you hon, embrace it.

2. We're going downy oshun.

Going to the beach? Then you're going downy oshun.

3. Can you get me some warter from the zinc?

This is a two-for-one! What is it about adding an r to water that just seems to flow right?

4. Be sure to warsh your hands!

Another example of Marylanders adding r to words.

5. They're a bunch'a chicken neckers.

If you're not from the eastern shore, then you're a chicken necker. The term came from tourists coming to the eastern shore who often use chicken necks to catch crabs from the pier.

6. You from Bawlmer?

For some Marylanders, the word Baltimore only requires two syllables.

7. Can I pet your dug?

Seriously, that dug is the cutest.

8. Can I hold your pen?

If you've ever worked in an office in Maryland, then someone may have asked to hold (borrow) your pen.

9. How bout them O's?

O's is the short and sweet way to refer to the Baltimore Orioles.

10. Will ya grab me a Natty Boh?

When talking about Maryland's favorite beer, National Bohemian sounds so formal. It's Natty Boh to locals.

11. Wanna get a sno-ball?

Snowballs aren't just for wintertime. In Maryland, they're a summertime favorite, preferably topped with marshmallow cream.

12. That's a whole nother story.

Usually said while gossiping. Don't even get me started, cuz that's a whole nother story.

13. There's no place like Merlin.

It's just the best. Period.

Are you guilty of using unique Maryland slang with out-of-towners that just don't understand the weird things Marylanders say? Any you would add to the list? If you are living in Maryland currently or have spent some time here in the past, feel free to share a few humdingers with us! For more Maryland sayings, click here.