zoinks
Zoinks (interjection) means used to express sudden surprise, alarm, or fright. Example: “Zoinks! I didn't see that coming at all.”
How to use zoinks
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA cartoonish exclamation of shock or fear, similar to "yikes" or "whoa."
Very informal and playful; strongly associated with Scooby-Doo in most people's minds.
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
_____! I didn't see that coming at all.
Etymology
Popularized by the cartoon character Shaggy in Scooby-Doo, who used it as his catchphrase whenever something startled him.
Frequently asked questions
What does “zoinks” mean?
The word “zoinks” means used to express sudden surprise, alarm, or fright. In plain terms, a cartoonish exclamation of shock or fear, similar to "yikes" or "whoa.".
How do you pronounce “zoinks”?
“Zoinks” is pronounced zoyngks (/zɔɪŋks/ in IPA).
How do you use “zoinks” in a sentence?
Here is “zoinks” used in a sentence: “Zoinks! I didn't see that coming at all.”
What part of speech is “zoinks”?
“Zoinks” is an interjection.
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