ouch
3 synonyms for ouch, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Intj — Used to express sudden physical pain.
Synonyms
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.
Etymology
Its exact origin is debated. Some trace it to German autsch by way of Pennsylvania German communities in the 1800s; others say it's simply a natural pain-cry that English speakers have used since the 1600s.
Full origin of ouch →Frequently asked questions
What does “ouch” mean?
The word “ouch” means used to express sudden physical pain. In plain terms, a quick word people blurt out when something hurts, physically or figuratively.
How do you pronounce “ouch”?
“Ouch” is pronounced OWCH (/ˈaʊt͡ʃ/ in IPA).
How do you use “ouch” in a sentence?
Here is “ouch” used in a sentence: “Ouch! I just stubbed my toe on the table.”
What part of speech is “ouch”?
“Ouch” is an intj.
Where does the word “ouch” come from?
The word “ouch” dates back to around 1800 and comes from German. Its exact origin is debated. Some trace it to German autsch by way of Pennsylvania German communities in the 1800s; others say it's simply a natural pain-cry that English speakers have used since the 1600s.
Is “ouch” a common word?
“Ouch” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “ouch” have?
“Ouch” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: used to express sudden physical pain.
When do people say ouch?
People say ouch to express sudden physical pain, or to react to something painful in a non-physical way, such as an insult or a shockingly high price.
Is ouch a formal or informal word?
Ouch is an informal interjection, used in casual spoken reactions rather than formal writing.
Can ouch be used for something other than physical pain?
Yes, ouch is also used to react to non-physical pain, such as a harsh comment or an unexpectedly high cost.
