hulloa

A man says "Hulloa!" as he answers the telephone.

Definition

1. Interjection:
   • Exclamation used to attract attention: "hulloa" is a variant spelling of "hallo" or "hello," used as a cry to get someone's notice.
   • Expression of surprise: It can also be used to express mild astonishment or interest.

Usage Examples

• Interjection:
  • Hulloa! Is anyone there? (Used to call out and attract attention.)
  • Hulloa! I didn't expect to see you here. (Expresses surprise at an unexpected encounter.)

Advanced Usage

• "hulloa" as a greeting: In older or dialectal English, "hulloa" may serve as a simple greeting, similar to "hello."

  • He shouted, "Hulloa!" as he approached the house. (A friendly greeting from a distance.)

• "hulloa" on the telephone: In historical contexts, "hulloa" was used as an exclamation when answering a telephone call.

  • She picked up the receiver and said, "Hulloa?" (A variant of "hello" used in telephonic communication.)

Variants and Related Words

• Hallo (interj): a common spelling variant of "hulloa," used for the same purposes.

  • Hallo! Can you hear me? (Attracting attention or greeting.)

• Hello (interj): the standard modern form of the exclamation.

  • Hello, how are you? (Standard greeting.)

Synonyms

• Hey: used to call attention or express surprise.
• Ah: an exclamation of surprise or realization.

Related Idioms

• "Not a hulloa": a rare phrase meaning complete silence or lack of response.
  • There was not a hulloa from the crowd. (No one called out or responded.)