Oy

Oy is an interjection used to express dismay, annoyance, pain, or surprise. Derived from Yiddish, it has been adopted into English and other languages, often in a lighthearted or affectionate way. In English writing it is typically lowercase as oy, though capitalization may occur at the start of a sentence or in titles. Common variants include oy vey and oy gevalt, with the longer phrases conveying stronger distress.

Origin and usage

The term originates in Yiddish, a language historically spoken by Ashkenazi Jews. It entered American English and other varieties of English through Jewish communities and has since appeared in literature, film, stand‑up comedy, and online media. In many contexts oy signals a culturally specific flavor, sometimes used as a humorous nod to Jewish humor.

Other uses

Besides its role as an interjection, the spelling Oy may appear as a geographic name, surname, or in other unrelated codes and acronyms in different languages or fields. These uses are etymologically distinct from the Yiddish interjection and are not linked to its expressive sense.

See also

Oy vey, a longer Yiddish expression of distress.