heave-ho: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1informal
Quick answer
What does “heave-ho” mean?
A rhythmic shout used in physical labour, especially for coordinated pulling.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A rhythmic shout used in physical labour, especially for coordinated pulling; the act of dismissively getting rid of someone or something.
A dismissal, usually abrupt or forcible, from a job, relationship, or situation. Also refers to the collective effort or action of heaving something away.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. The phrase is equally understood and used in both varieties.
Connotations
The dismissive sense is humorous and informal, often softening the bluntness of 'firing' or 'rejecting' someone.
Frequency
Low frequency in both, but stable as a colourful idiomatic expression. Slightly more common in journalistic/colloquial contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “heave-ho” in a Sentence
[give] + [indirect object] + the (old) heave-ho[get] + the heave-ho[with] a collective heave-hoVocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Informal term for dismissal. e.g., 'After the merger, several directors got the heave-ho.'
Academic
Rare; might appear in historical or linguistic texts about work chants.
Everyday
Used humorously for ending relationships or ejecting someone from a group. e.g., 'My flatmate got the heave-ho for not paying rent.'
Technical
Not used in technical registers.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “heave-ho”
- Using it as a verb (*'They heave-hoed him'). Correct: 'They gave him the heave-ho.'
- Confusing it with 'heave' alone, which means to lift/pull with effort.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is not standard. It functions as a noun (the heave-ho) or an interjection. Use phrases like 'give the heave-ho' or 'get the heave-ho'.
It is informal and often humorous. While it describes a negative event (dismissal), its tone is lighter than 'fired' or 'sacked'.
It originates from the rhythmic cries ('heave!', 'ho!') used by sailors when pulling ropes or anchors together, dating back to the 16th century.
No, it's an optional intensifier that adds a colloquial, familiar tone. Both 'the heave-ho' and 'the old heave-ho' are correct.
A rhythmic shout used in physical labour, especially for coordinated pulling.
Heave-ho is usually informal in register.
Heave-ho: in British English it is pronounced /ˌhiːv ˈhəʊ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌhiːv ˈhoʊ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “give someone the (old) heave-ho”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a sailor (HEAVE) throwing a heavy sack overboard while shouting 'HO!' – it's a strong, decisive action of removal.
Conceptual Metaphor
REMOVAL IS PHYSICAL EJECTION / SOCIAL RELATIONSHIPS ARE PHYSICAL BURDENS (TO BE THROWN OUT)
Practice
Quiz
In which situation would you most likely use 'heave-ho'?