ho

UK: həʊ | US: hoʊ

Definition

  1. n. (slang) 1. A derogatory term for a woman, often implying promiscuity.

  2. n. 2. (archaic) An exclamation of surprise, joy, or calling attention (e.g., "Ho!").

  3. interj. 3. Used to express triumph or mockery (e.g., "Ho ho ho!").

Structure

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Etymology

The word "ho" has multiple origins:

  1. As a slang term (sense 1), it likely derives from a 19th-century alteration of "whore," influenced by African American Vernacular English (AAVE).
  2. The interjection (senses 2–3) traces back to Middle English as a natural exclamation, akin to "hey" or "oh," with Germanic roots.
Examples

  1. (Slang) "He disrespectfully referred to her as a ho."

  2. (Archaic) "Ho! Who goes there?"

  3. (Interjection) "Santa chuckled, 'Ho ho ho!'"

  4. (Slang, pejorative) "The term 'ho' is considered offensive and reductive."

  5. (Archaic) "The knight raised his sword and cried, 'Ho! To battle!'"