ay
Ay (intj) means an exclamation of pain, dismay, or distress. Example: “Ay, that hurts!" she cried as she stubbed her toe.”
How to use ay
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAn old exclamation of pain or dismay, or a literary word for "always".
Not the same as "aye" (meaning "yes"), though the two are often confused in casual writing.
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
"_____, that hurts!" she cried as she stubbed her toe.
Etymology
From Middle English variants such as ei and ey, an old exclamation of pain or surprise, likely shaped by imitation of the natural sound people make when hurt.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for ay
See all rhymes for ay →Frequently asked questions
What does “ay” mean?
The word “ay” means an exclamation of pain, dismay, or distress. In plain terms, an old exclamation of pain or dismay, or a literary word for "always".
How do you pronounce “ay”?
“Ay” is pronounced eye (/aɪ/ in IPA).
How do you use “ay” in a sentence?
Here is “ay” used in a sentence: “"Ay, that hurts!" she cried as she stubbed her toe.”
What part of speech is “ay”?
Depending on how it is used, “ay” can be an intj and an adverb.
Where does the word “ay” come from?
The word “ay” comes from Middle English. From Middle English variants such as ei and ey, an old exclamation of pain or surprise, likely shaped by imitation of the natural sound people make when hurt.
Is “ay” a common word?
“Ay” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “ay” have?
“Ay” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: an exclamation of pain, dismay, or distress.
What is the difference between 'ay' and 'aye'?
'Ay' here is an exclamation of pain, dismay, or distress, similar to 'ouch' or 'oh no,' while 'aye' is a separate word meaning 'yes,' especially in voting or nautical contexts. The two are often confused because they sound alike, but spelling distinguishes their meanings.
What does 'ay' mean in older or literary English?
In older or literary English, ay can function as an adverb meaning 'always' or 'forever,' as in the phrase 'for ay,' meaning forever. This usage is archaic and mostly appears in poetry or historical texts rather than modern speech.
Is 'ay' used the same way in expressions like 'ay caramba'?
'Ay' as an exclamation of pain or dismay is the base interjection found in expressions like 'ay caramba,' which intensifies the same feeling of distress or exasperation. It functions similarly to 'ouch' or 'oh dear' in English.
Featured in
Vocabulary lists that include ay: