Between the political double speak and cagey conversations derived from a cultural eroticism at the prospect of government clearance, it’s hard to understand a D.C. local.

It’s like they are speaking another language. They are.

We, at the Derelict Division of Hermeneutics (‘DIH’), believe it is an inalienable right not only to have the freedom of speech, but the freedom to understand it, too. Our team of ethnographers have eavesdropped at Meridian Hill Park and fake-laughed at Happy Hours district-wide to bring you the most current and accurate DC dictionary.

DC Speaks. We Translate.

Because Freedom of Speech Means Nothing If You Have No F*%king Idea What They’re Saying.

“Let’s grab a coffee sometime”

/ lɛts ɡræb ə ˈkɒfi /

A contronym that typically signifies a lack of interest by the speaker to engage further while simultaneously maintaining a commitment to pleasantries. Common especially within Kalorama, Dupont Circle, “NOMA,” or within 150 of any lobbying group or Hill staff summer cohort.