'Ope, sorry:' A deeper look into the Midwest's favorite expression
May 4, 2020 · It’s said after bumping into someone, dropping something, or as an alert of someone needing to get around or “sneak right past ya.” That new awareness prompts questions about the origins of “ope”...
The Midwest Accent Explained (With Slang and Examples)
"Ope" is a phrase that supposedly exists only in the Midwest. Here, we examine the usages of this phrase, the Midwest accent, and slang from the Midwest.
OPE Definition & Meaning - Dictionary.com
In casual usage, ope is an interjection used to express surprise or to alert someone, as in Ope, didn’t mean to bump into you! The word ope is considered a Midwestern slang term that’s …
Ope! Sorry, I'm going to need you to explain what that word …
Aug 31, 2022 · Barrett had some shocking news to share with us: The word “ope” is not — I repeat, not — Midwestern in origin. It’s not even exclusive to this part of the country. There are self-reports of the word being used across the United States, Canada and …
The Origins of ‘OPE’: Michigan’s Go To Surprise Phrase - 99.1 WFMK
Feb 19, 2024 · Is 'Ope' an abbreviation, slang, or a word all its own created by socially awkward Michiganders who specialize in half-smirk greetings and fake jogs when someone holds a door for us? Let's explore three possible origins of the Mitten's involuntary saying.
Ope Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster
Ope Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster. Definition. Word History. Entries Near. Show more. Save Word. ope. verb. ˈōp. oped; oping. archaic. : open. Word History. First Known Use. 15th century, in the meaning defined above. Time Traveler. The first known use of ope was in the 15th century. See more words from the same century.
Regionalisms: We Don't Call it That Around Here : Ope
Definition: — used in contexts in which “excuse me,” “sorry,” and “oops” are used Example: Ope, just gotta sneak by you. Ope is associated with the Midwest and especially with Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Illinois, but also claimed by folks in North Dakota and other parts.
What Does Ope Mean? - Meaning, Uses and More - FluentSlang
Sep 19, 2023 · What Does Ope Mean? The term ope is a commonly used expression of surprise among people from the Midwest. It is often uttered when reacting to something unexpected, such as accidentally bumping into someone or dropping something. It can be seen as a variation of “oh,” “oops,” “whoops,” or “whoa.”
'Ope!': The All-Purpose Expression of Midwestern Politeness
May 8, 2018 · Ope is less of a word, and more of a reflex. It can communicate excitement or awkwardness or surprise or an apology or even urgency. It’s an interruption in the most discreet way possible.
Origins and uses of the Midwest phrase, ‘ope’ - KCtoday
Mar 16, 2022 · Ope is classified as a “surprise word,” or a tiny exclamation of surprise — as in, “Ope, sorry I bumped into you.” But that doesn’t stop it from taking on colloquial meaning. The true etymology is most likely lost , but some speculate that it’s similar to “oops.”