ay

ay · interjection

imported

Definitions

interjection

  1. 1.

    An exclamation expressing surprise, dismay, or sorrow.

  2. 2.

    Variant spelling of "aye" meaning yes or affirmative (archaic/dialectal).

  3. 3.

    (Spanish influence, informal) An exclamation of frustration, surprise, or emphasis.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    ay me — Expression of distress or sorrow (archaic/literary).
  • •
    ay caramba — Exclamation of surprise (from Spanish).

Related words

Antonyms: nay, no
See also: alas, aye, oh
Synonyms: aye, oh, yes

Etymology

From Middle English ay, ai, an exclamation of grief or surprise. The word has roots in various languages including Old French and Old Norse.