Whew
[hwjuː;fjuː] or [hwju]
Definition
(n. & interj.) A sound like a half-formed whistle, expressing astonishment, scorn, or dislike.
(v. i.) To whistle with a shrill pipe, like a plover.
Checked by Ida
Definition
v.i. (prov.) to bustle about.
interj. expressing wonder or dismay.—n. a whistling sound noting astonishment.—v.i. to utter such a sound.
Editor: Moll
Examples
- Whew--a Countess! Edith Wharton. The Age of Innocence.
- With me to manage the property, and my wife to manage the people--Whew! Charles Dickens. Our Mutual Friend.
- Frederick's lips closed with a long whew of dismay. Elizabeth Cleghorn Gaskell. North and South.
- You are not under petticoat government, like poor Sweeting, a man--whew! Charlotte Bronte. Shirley.
Editor: Moll