phew
Meaning
- Used to express relief of tension, fatigue, or surprise.
- Used to show disgust.
Frequency
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
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