meo: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very low (specialized/internet slang)Informal, playful, internet/chat slang
Quick answer
What does “meo” mean?
an informal, often humorous representation of the sound a cat makes, especially in digital communication.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
an informal, often humorous representation of the sound a cat makes, especially in digital communication; an interjection.
Used online as a cat-related greeting, playful sound effect, or to indicate cuteness; can sometimes function as a casual, affectionate exclamation.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant regional difference in meaning or usage. Its presence is tied to internet culture rather than geographic dialect.
Connotations
Same connotations in both varieties: playful, cute, informal, sometimes childlike or humorous.
Frequency
Equally rare in both varieties, used by specific online communities.
Grammar
How to Use “meo” in a Sentence
Used as an interjection on its own: 'Meo!'Used as a quoted sound: 'The cat went "meo."'Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Not used.
Everyday
Very rarely, and only in extremely casual, humorous conversations, often about pets.
Technical
Not used.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “meo”
- Using it in formal writing.
- Spelling it as "meow" when deliberately using the stylized form "meo."
- Assuming it is a verb (e.g., 'The cat meoed').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is not a standard dictionary word but exists as an informal, stylized representation of a cat's sound, primarily in digital communication.
No. It is strictly informal and would be considered inappropriate in academic, business, or formal contexts.
'Meow' is the standard spelling for the sound a cat makes. 'Meo' is a playful, shortened, or stylized version often used online for a cute or humorous effect.
No. It functions almost exclusively as an interjection or a quoted sound. The standard verb is 'meow' (e.g., The cat meowed).
an informal, often humorous representation of the sound a cat makes, especially in digital communication.
Meo is usually informal, playful, internet/chat slang in register.
Meo: in British English it is pronounced /miːˈəʊ/, and in American English it is pronounced /miˈoʊ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of the letters MEO as a playful, shortened version of "MEOw" – like a cat saying hello.
Conceptual Metaphor
ANIMAL SOUNDS ARE COMMUNICATION; CUTENESS IS CHILDISH LANGUAGE.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the word 'meo' MOST appropriate?