yikes
2 synonyms for yikes, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Intj — An exclamation of shock, alarm, or dismay.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Etymology
First recorded in the mid-20th century; likely descended from older hunting exclamations like "yoicks", used to spur on hounds, with the meaning shifting over time into a general cry of alarm.
Full origin of yikes →Frequently asked questions
What does “yikes” mean?
The word “yikes” means an exclamation of shock, alarm, or dismay. In plain terms, a casual way of expressing surprise or "uh-oh".
How do you pronounce “yikes”?
“Yikes” is pronounced yyks (/jaɪks/ in IPA).
How do you use “yikes” in a sentence?
Here is “yikes” used in a sentence: “Yikes, I completely forgot about the meeting!”
What is another word for “yikes”?
Words with a similar meaning to “yikes” include wow.
What part of speech is “yikes”?
“Yikes” is an intj.
Where does the word “yikes” come from?
The word “yikes” dates back to around 1900. First recorded in the mid-20th century; likely descended from older hunting exclamations like "yoicks", used to spur on hounds, with the meaning shifting over time into a general cry of alarm.
Is “yikes” a common word?
“Yikes” is an uncommon word in modern English.
