Hey

Definition

Hey is an interjection commonly used to attract attention, express surprise, greet someone, or convey other emotions such as disapproval or excitement. It is an informal and versatile expression.

Parts of Speech

• Interjection

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /heɪ/
• Respelling: HAY

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /heɪ/
• Respelling: HAY

Etymology

The word "hey" originates from Middle English "hei," which was used as a call to attract attention. It is derived from Old High German "hei" and Old Norse "hei," both of which are exclamations used to convey emotion or summon attention.

Derivatives

• Heyday (noun, meaning a period of success or vigor)
• Hey-ho (interjection, expressing resignation or cheerfulness)
• Heyer (rare, informal variant)
• Heyness (noun, rare, denoting the quality of being "hey-like")
• Heying (noun/verb, informal)

Synonyms

• Hi
• Hello
• Yo

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The interjection "hey" is widely used in informal speech and writing. It is commonly used as a greeting ("Hey, how are you?"), to attract attention ("Hey, look at this!"), or to express surprise or disapproval ("Hey, that's not fair!"). It is versatile and can be used to convey a variety of emotions depending on tone and context.

Related Terms

• Hi: A common greeting in informal settings.
• Hello: A standard greeting used in both formal and informal contexts.
• Yo: A casual and slang form of greeting or attracting attention.

Detailed Definitions

Interjection

• Used to attract attention: Refers to calling someone’s focus to a matter or event.
  • Example: "Hey, wait for me!"
• Used as a greeting: Refers to an informal way of saying hello.
  • Example: "Hey, what's up?"
• Used to express surprise or disapproval: Indicates a reaction to something unexpected or undesirable.
  • Example: "Hey, that’s my seat!"
• Used to express excitement: Conveys enthusiasm or joy.
  • Example: "Hey, we won the game!"