phew

Meaning

  1. Used to express relief of tension, fatigue, or surprise.
  2. Used to show disgust.

Translations

Frequency

C1
Pronounced as (IPA)
/fjuː/
Etymology

In summary

Attested since the early 17th century. An onomatopoeia for rapid exhalation, as one may make when a trying situation is over, or in order to get rid of an unpleasant odour. Compare Scots feuch, Spanish fu, Czech fuj, and many more such forms.

Notes

Sign in to write sticky notes