tally-ho
Definition
Interjection:
- A hunter's cry: "tally-ho" is an exclamation used by hunters, especially in fox hunting, to indicate that a fox has been sighted.
Noun:
- The cry itself: "tally-ho" refers to the shout or call made by a hunter upon seeing the fox.
Verb:
- To utter the cry: "tally-ho" means to shout or call out this exclamation during a hunt.
Usage Examples
Interjection:
- The rider shouted "tally-ho!" as the fox broke cover. (The hunter cried out upon seeing the fox emerge.)
Noun:
- A loud tally-ho echoed across the field. (The hunter's cry was heard far away.)
Verb:
- He tallied-ho when he spotted the animal. (He shouted the hunting cry.)
Advanced Usage
"to give a tally-ho": to make the hunting call.
- The huntsman gave a clear tally-ho to signal the start of the chase. (He emitted the traditional cry.)
"tally-ho point": in hunting, the location where the fox is first seen.
- They gathered at the tally-ho point to begin the pursuit. (They met at the spot where the fox was sighted.)
Variants and Related Words
Tally-ho (adj): sometimes used informally to describe something related to hunting or excitement.
- The party had a tally-ho atmosphere. (The gathering was lively and energetic, like a hunt.)
Tally-hoing (n): the act of shouting "tally-ho".
- The tally-hoing of the riders could be heard from afar. (The repeated cries of the hunters.)
Synonyms
- Hallo: a similar hunting cry.
- View halloo: another traditional hunter's call upon sighting the fox.
Phrasal Verbs
- Tally-ho off: (rare) to begin a hunt with the cry.
- They tallied-ho off at dawn. (They started the hunt with the call.)
Related Idioms
- "Tally-ho and away": an expression meaning to start a chase or adventure with enthusiasm.
- With a cry of "tally-ho and away," they galloped into the forest. (They began the pursuit eagerly.)