Oho
/əˈhoʊ/noun
An exclamation used to express surprise, recognition, triumph, or mild mockery.
Did you know?Unlike words with ancient sacred roots, oho is an expressive interjection that likely arose from natural speech, but it became a durable dramatic cue in English literature and dialogue.
Etymological Timeline
Late Middle English
English
oho
“An exclamation of surprise or triumph”
16th Century
English
oho
“Used in dialogue and drama to mark sudden recognition, suspicion, or teasing mockery”
Modern English
English
oho
“An exclamation expressing surprise, realization, or sly amusement”
Modern English
English
oh
“A general exclamation of emotion, surprise, or attention”