How Do You Spell HO?

Pronunciation: [hˈə͡ʊ] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "ho" may seem simple, but the pronunciation can be confusing. In IPA phonetic transcription, "ho" is spelled as /hoʊ/. The "o" sound is pronounced longer with a hint of the "w" sound at the end. This pronunciation is different from the sound of "hoe" (/hoʊ/) or "huh" (/hʌ/). In everyday conversation, it can be pronounced with different intonations to convey surprise, impatience or attention. The spelling of "ho" may be easy, but the pronunciation takes practice.

HO Meaning and Definition

  1. Ho is a versatile and multifaceted word that can have several meanings depending on the context in which it is used. It is an exclamation typically used to get someone's attention, to express surprise, or to announce one's presence. In this sense, it is often associated with calling attention or getting someone to listen.

    Historically, ho has also been used as a way to express dismay or disappointment. It can be used as an interjection to convey frustration, dissatisfaction, or disapproval towards a situation or action. It serves as a vocalization of negative emotions or displeasure.

    Additionally, ho can function as a noun to describe a prostitute or someone involved in the sex trade. This usage is often considered derogatory or offensive and should be avoided in polite conversation.

    In summary, ho is an exclamation used to capture attention or convey surprise, can express disappointment or disapproval, and can also refer to a person engaged in sex work. However, it is essential to be cautious when using this word, ensuring that its context is appropriate and respectful.

  2. Chemical symbol of holmium.

    A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

  3. Hold! stop! used to excite attention.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for HO *

  • hwo 17.7777777%
  • hos 4.4444444%
  • hoo 2.2222222%
  • qho 2.2222222%

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for HO

Etymology of HO

The term "ho" has multiple meanings and origins, so it is important to specify which sense of the word you are referring to. Here are a few possible origins for different uses of the word:

1. As a slang interjection or exclamation: The use of "ho" as an interjection or exclamation to express surprise, excitement, or to attract attention is derived from various English dialects in the late 19th century. It can be compared to the interjection "holla" or "holloa", which originally was a hunting cry.

2. As a slang term for a prostitute: The word "ho" in this context is thought to have originated from the Middle English word "hore", which evolved into "whore" over time. "Ho" is often used colloquially or in certain genres of music to refer to a sex worker.

Idioms with the word HO

  • gung ho The idiom "gung ho" refers to being extremely enthusiastic, eager, or zealous about a person, activity, or cause. It implies a high level of motivation, commitment, and a positive attitude towards accomplishing a task or goal.
  • ho-hum The idiom "ho-hum" is used to describe something that is dull, uninteresting, or lacking excitement. It refers to a feeling of boredom or apathy towards a situation or event.
  • ho-jo(’s) The idiom "ho-jo's" refers to the nickname for the Howard Johnson's chain of hotels and restaurants. It is commonly used to describe a mid-20th-century American roadside motel or diner, often with a nostalgic or vintage connotation.
  • give sb the (old) heave ho The idiom "give someone the (old) heave ho" means to dismiss, fire, or reject someone abruptly or forcefully, typically from a job or a relationship. It implies a sudden and decisive action taken to remove someone from a particular situation or position.
  • ho stro
  • ho-jo
  • give (one) the old heave-ho The idiom "give (one) the old heave-ho" means to dismiss, fire, or eject someone from a particular situation or position with force or abruptly.
  • give (or get) the heave-ho The idiom "give (or get) the heave-ho" means to be rejected, dismissed, or removed from a situation or position. It implies a forceful and abrupt dismissal or expulsion.
  • give (one) the heave-ho The idiom "give (one) the heave-ho" means to dismiss or reject someone unceremoniously or abruptly. It refers to forcing someone to leave or get rid of them.
  • heave-ho, give the The idiom "heave-ho, give the" means to cast aside or discard something, often forcefully or without hesitation. It is usually used in situations where something or someone is no longer wanted or needed.
  • *old heave-ho The idiom "old heave-ho" refers to dismissing or getting rid of someone or something, typically in a forceful or abrupt manner. It is often used informally to describe a situation where someone or something is being pushed away or rejected.
  • give somebody the heave-ho To give somebody the heave-ho means to dismiss or get rid of someone, usually in a rude or abrupt manner.
  • give something/someone the old heave-ho To give someone or something the old heave-ho means to reject, dismiss, or get rid of them/it, often in a harsh or abrupt manner.
  • heave ho! The idiom "heave ho!" is a phrase used as a command to urge people to start or continue exerting effort, usually in a physical task that requires strength and teamwork. It is often used when lifting or moving heavy objects.
  • give something/someone the heave-ho To give something or someone the heave-ho means to dismiss or get rid of them unceremoniously or abruptly. It could refer to firing an employee, breaking off a relationship, or getting rid of something unwanted.

Similar spelling words for HO

Infographic

Add the infographic to your website: