Duh - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Interjection}

expressing obviousness

The term 'duh' is commonly used to signify that something is obvious or self-evident. It often conveys a sense of disdain for what is perceived as a silly question or statement. The expression is typically informal and can indicate impatience. It became popularized in the late 20th century, particularly in youth culture and slang.

Synonyms

certainly, obviously, of course.

Examples of usage

Duh, everyone knows that!
You forgot your keys? Duh!
The sky is blue. Duh.
Are you really asking me that? Duh!

Interesting Facts

Psychology

Using 'duh' can indicate feelings of impatience or frustration, reflecting how communication styles vary in different situations.
'Duh' can also highlight social dynamics, with the speaker often feeling superior to the listener in terms of knowledge.
Psychologically, this word may serve as a tool for social bonding, signaling camaraderie through shared understandings of what's obvious.

Pop Culture

Characters in popular TV shows, like 'The Simpsons', routinely use 'duh' to emphasize sarcasm or mock simplicity.
The catchphrase 'Duh, Winning!' became a viral sensation, illustrating how this simple word can become part of memorable phrases.
In various internet memes, 'duh' is used humorously to highlight the absurdity of a situation, tapping into collective humor.

Origin of 'duh'

Main points about word origin

'Duh' likely started in the 1940s as a representation of a sound people make when they're frustrated or pointing out something obvious.
It’s often used in informal conversations and has roots in American slang, showing the playful nature of language.
The word’s usage grew with pop culture, especially in television and films where characters needed to express simple truths.

The word 'duh' appears to have originated in the early 20th century, with some evidence tracing its use back to the 1940s. It was initially recorded in the 1943 edition of the magazine 'The New Yorker' in an article that highlighted its use among soldiers during World War II. However, it truly gained popular traction in the 1990s, particularly in American English, fueled by its frequent use in television shows and movies, especially those aimed at younger audiences. One notable instance of its pop culture impact is its regular use in the character of 'Lisa Simpson' on 'The Simpsons,' where it often served to underline the character's sarcasm or frustration. The term has now become a staple in informal conversations, conveying redundancy or the obviousness of a statement. Its simplicity and succinctness have made it an enduring part of modern slang, utilized to dismiss what is perceived as ignorance.

Duh Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations