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verb

oss

os

Oss (verb) means to be inclined or minded to do something; to set about doing it. Example: “He ossed to leave before the argument started.”

verb
1
To be inclined or minded to do something; to set about doing it.
"He ossed to leave before the argument started."
2
To offer to do something.
"She ossed to help carry the boxes upstairs."

How to use oss

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishAn old, regional English dialect word meaning to offer or intend to do something.

When to use it

Dialectal and rare in modern standard English — mainly found in northern English regional speech.

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Test yourself on “oss” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

He _____ to leave before the argument started.

Etymology

Origin unclear; possibly connected to Old English hālsian ("to beseech, entreat"), though the sense has shifted considerably over time.

Origin: Old English

Rhymes for oss

See all rhymes for oss →

Frequently asked questions

What does “oss” mean?

The word “oss” means to be inclined or minded to do something; to set about doing it. In plain terms, an old, regional English dialect word meaning to offer or intend to do something.

How do you pronounce “oss”?

“Oss” is pronounced os (/ɒs/ in IPA).

How do you use “oss” in a sentence?

Here is “oss” used in a sentence: “He ossed to leave before the argument started.”

What part of speech is “oss”?

“Oss” is a verb.

Where does the word “oss” come from?

The word “oss” comes from Old English. Origin unclear; possibly connected to Old English hālsian ("to beseech, entreat"), though the sense has shifted considerably over time.

How many meanings does “oss” have?

“Oss” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to be inclined or minded to do something; to set about doing it.

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial