hey
hay
Hey (interjection) means an informal way to greet someone or get their attention. Example: “Hey, over here!" she shouted across the platform.”
interjection
1
An informal way to greet someone or get their attention.
""Hey, over here!" she shouted across the platform."
"Hey, have you got a minute?"
"Hey, how was your weekend away with the family?"
2
Used to express surprise, protest, or mild reprimand.
"Hey, that's not fair!"
"Hey, you can't park your car there!"
"Hey, who took the last slice of cake?"
How to use hey
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA casual word for saying hi or making someone notice you.
When to use it
Very informal — fine with friends and family, but not for formal writing or addressing strangers politely.
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Word forms
- Plural
- heys
- Third person singular
- heys
- Past tense
- heyed
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
"_____, over here!" she shouted across the platform.
Etymology
From Middle English "hey"/"hei," an ancient exclamation found in a similar form across many unrelated languages — likely just a natural sound people make to call attention.
Related words
Rhymes for hey
See all rhymes for hey →Frequently asked questions
What does “hey” mean?
The word “hey” means an informal way to greet someone or get their attention. In plain terms, a casual word for saying hi or making someone notice you.
How do you pronounce “hey”?
“Hey” is pronounced hay (/heɪ/ in IPA).
How do you use “hey” in a sentence?
Here is “hey” used in a sentence: “"Hey, over here!" she shouted across the platform.”
What is another word for “hey”?
Words with a similar meaning to “hey” include yo, gee whiz, yowzah, howdy, wotcher and ahem.
What part of speech is “hey”?
“Hey” is an interjection.
Where does the word “hey” come from?
The word “hey” comes from Middle English. From Middle English "hey"/"hei," an ancient exclamation found in a similar form across many unrelated languages — likely just a natural sound people make to call attention.
Is “hey” a common word?
“Hey” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
How many meanings does “hey” have?
“Hey” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: an informal way to greet someone or get their attention.
What is the difference between hey and hi?
Both are informal greetings, but "hi" is a straightforward friendly hello, while "hey" is even more casual and relaxed. "Hey" can also be used to get someone's attention or to show surprise, which "hi" cannot. In practice, "hey" feels warmer and more familiar than a simple "hi."
Is hey formal or informal?
"Hey" is informal. It works well with friends, family, and people you know, but it can seem too casual or even abrupt in professional or first-time situations. In a job email or a message to someone senior, a greeting like "Hello" or "Dear" is a safer, more respectful choice.
What is an example of hey being used?
"Hey" appears in everyday speech in two main ways. As a greeting: "Hey, good to see you!" And as a way to grab attention: "Hey, wait for me!" It can also express surprise or protest, as in "Hey, that's mine!" Tone and context tell you which meaning is intended.
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