Eheu

/ˈeɪ.hjuː/ interjection

Definition

A Latin exclamation expressing sadness, regret, or sorrow; similar to 'alas' or 'oh dear' in English.

Etymology

From Latin eheu, an interjection used in classical texts. It appears frequently in Roman poetry and literature as an expression of grief or lamentation, similar to other Latin exclamations like 'heu' or 'vae'.

Kelly Says

Latin interjections like 'eheu' reveal the emotional depth of ancient Rome—when we read Ovid or Cicero using 'eheu,' we're hearing the authentic voice of someone expressing genuine sorrow across 2,000 years.

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