Doh Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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doh
[doÊŠ ]
Definition
expression of frustration
Doh is an expression used to signify frustration or realization of a mistake, often used humorously. It was famously popularized by the character Homer Simpson from the animated television series 'The Simpsons.' It's usually exclaimed when someone acknowledges that they have done something foolish or made a blunder. The term is often accompanied by an exaggerated inflection to emphasize the error.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Doh! I forgot to save my work before closing the document.
- When she realized she had left her wallet at home, she exclaimed, 'Doh!'
- After spilling coffee on his shirt, he couldn't help but say, 'Doh!'
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- 'Doh' became popular in the 1990s with the animated character Homer Simpson from 'The Simpsons', who often uses it when he makes a mistake.
- The character's exaggerated use of 'doh' has made it a recognizable expression around the world, becoming part of daily language.
- Various merchandise has been promoting the phrase, including t-shirts, mugs, and even greeting cards.
Linguistics
- The sound 'doh' is an example of an interjection, a word or phrase that expresses a spontaneous feeling or reaction.
- In some languages, similar expressions exist; for instance, 'duh' in English conveys a sense of 'that's obvious' or 'of course'.
- The term's simplicity makes it easy to understand and mimic, which contributes to its widespread use.
Psychology
- Using exclamations like 'doh' can serve as a humorous way to cope with embarrassment, allowing individuals to laugh at their mistakes.
- Expressing frustration through sound helps in venting emotions, providing some psychological relief in social situations.
- Social laughter often follows mistakes, reinforcing connections among friends and family as they share similar experiences.
Media Impact
- The phrase was so influential that it was added to the Oxford English Dictionary in 2001, recognizing its place in modern language.
- Experts in media studies often discuss the cultural significance of phrases like 'doh' in analyzing humor and societal norms in sitcoms.
- Many shows have borrowed the phrase, revealing its impact beyond just 'The Simpsons' and showcasing its adaptability in diverse contexts.
Origin of 'doh'
The term 'doh' first gained widespread recognition thanks to the animated character Homer Simpson, who is portrayed as a bumbling, yet lovable father figure in 'The Simpsons,' created by Matt Groening. Homer frequently uses the exclamation 'Doh!' to express his irritation or realization of a foolish mistake, particularly in situations where his actions have negative consequences. This exclamation has transcended its original context in the show and has become synonymous with moments of regret or self-deprecation. The phonetic sound of 'doh' mirrors the simplicity and humor of the character, making it an easy expression for audiences to adopt. Although the term is nearly universally recognized today, its origin in the show has cemented its cultural significance, often illustrating the human tendency to make mistakes and the lighthearted approach we sometimes take in acknowledging them.