English Explanatory Dictionary

lo and behold

English dictionary entry

Meanings

intj
  1. Used to express surprise.

Pronunciation

LL-Q1860 (eng)-Vealhurl-lo and behold.wav

Word forms

lo and behold

Etymology

The lo in the expression probably originated from the shortening of the word look, commonly seen in Middle English texts. Its presence in literature can be traced to at least as early as the 18th century. The literal meaning of the expression is "look and see", and it is always used as if in the imperative.

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