A "Hokie" is primarily known as the mascot and nickname for Virginia Tech, officially Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. The term originated from a spirit yell called the "Old Hokie" cheer, created in 1896 by a student named O.M. Stull as part of a contest for a new school cheer when the college changed its name. Stull made up the word "Hokie" as an attention- getter in his cheer, and it eventually became synonymous with the school's teams and loyal fans. The Virginia Tech athletic teams are called the "Hokies," and the mascot is the "HokieBird," a turkey-like figure that evolved from the original "Fighting Gobblers" nickname and mascot. The HokieBird has been the official mascot since 1981. In essence, a "Hokie" refers to a Virginia Tech student, fan, or athlete, embodying school spirit and loyalty. The official definition is "a loyal Virginia Tech fan." The term and mascot are deeply rooted in Virginia Tech tradition and culture. So if someone says they are a Hokie, it means they are affiliated with or a supporter of Virginia Tech.