An exclamation used to attract attention or express greeting, often used by sailors. A call used to hail someone at a distance.
From Middle English hoy, possibly from Middle Dutch hoey or hoy, used as a nautical call. The word has been used since the 14th century as an attention-getting exclamation, particularly in maritime contexts where clear vocal signals were essential.
The word 'hoy' survives most famously in 'ahoy' (as in 'ship ahoy!'), where the 'a-' prefix intensifies the call. Alexander Graham Bell originally wanted people to answer the telephone with 'ahoy' instead of 'hello,' but Thomas Edison's preference for 'hello' ultimately prevailed in telephone etiquette.
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