Y

Interjection | Pronounced: \ee, ˈē\ | IPA: /i/

Definition of Y

—used to express surprise

Origin of Y

New Mexican English. Misunderstanding of English interjection from subdivision of eek, a generic surprised yell, as a shortening of the Mexican Spanish colloquial interjection of hijole, pronounced ee-ho-lay, similar to the English word yikes.
Alternate spellings exist; E.
First Known Use: 19th century