Definition

Proper noun: * Old Dominion State: A nickname for the Commonwealth of Virginia, a state in the eastern United States. The term "Old Dominion" is a historical reference to Virginia's status as England's oldest colony in the Americas, established in the early 17th century.

Usage

• The nickname is used to refer to Virginia in a historical, formal, or affectionate context, often in official state mottos, tourism, and historical writing.
• It is typically used as a proper noun and is often capitalized.

Examples

• Proper noun:
  • The tour highlighted the rich history of the Old Dominion State.
  • She was proud to be born and raised in the Old Dominion State.

Advanced Usage

• The term can be used metonymically to refer to the government or people of Virginia.
  • The Old Dominion State has passed new legislation on education.

Variants and Related Words

• Old Dominion: A shorter, equally common variant of the full nickname.
  • He traveled across the Old Dominion to research his book.
• Virginia: The official name of the state.
• Commonwealth of Virginia: The official legal designation.

Synonyms

• Virginia
• Commonwealth of Virginia

Related Phrases

• "Mother of Presidents": Another historical nickname for Virginia, referencing the number of U.S. Presidents born there.
• "Mother of States": A nickname noting that many western states were carved from territories originally claimed by Virginia.

Noun

1. a state in the eastern United States; one of the original 13 colonies; one of the Confederate States in the American Civil War