homo
6 synonyms for homo, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — Whole or full-fat milk that has been processed so the fat is evenly distributed.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
homophile
human being
Etymology
Shortened form of "homosexual" in one sense; "homogenized" in the dairy sense.
Full origin of homo →Frequently asked questions
What does “homo” mean?
The word “homo” means whole or full-fat milk that has been processed so the fat is evenly distributed. In plain terms, has two very different everyday uses: an informal Canadian/regional term for homogenized milk, and a dated slur — context makes clear which is meant.
How do you pronounce “homo”?
“Homo” is pronounced HOH-moh (/ˈhoʊ.moʊ/ in IPA).
How do you use “homo” in a sentence?
Here is “homo” used in a sentence: “He picked up a carton of homo on the way home for the kids' cereal.”
What part of speech is “homo”?
Depending on how it is used, “homo” can be a noun and an adjective.
Is “homo” a common word?
“Homo” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “homo” have?
“Homo” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: whole or full-fat milk that has been processed so the fat is evenly distributed.
What does 'homo' mean when it refers to milk?
In this sense, homo is short for homogenized milk, meaning whole or full-fat milk that has been processed so the fat particles are evenly distributed rather than separating out as cream. This term is common in everyday grocery and dairy contexts, especially in Canada.
Is 'homo' an offensive word?
As an adjective relating to homosexuality, homo is a slang term that is often considered offensive and is best avoided in formal, professional, or polite speech. It carries a very different meaning from the dairy sense, so context matters a great deal.
Why does 'homo' have two such different meanings?
The two senses come from unrelated sources: the milk sense is a shortened form of 'homogenized,' while the other is a clipped, informal form related to 'homosexual.' Because the meanings are unrelated, the intended sense is usually obvious from context, such as a grocery aisle versus a conversation about identity.
