Etymology Journal ยท W
Well, well, well
Meaning
- An expression of surprise, discovery, or knowing judgment. It is the classic sound of someone uncovering a secret or catching someone in the act.
Suspicious, knowing
Used in a sentence
- Well, well, well, look who decided to show up on time for once.
- I found the missing remote hidden under the couch cushion. Well, well, well.
- Well, well, well, it looks like someone left the gate open again.
The backstory
A traditional exclamation that dates back centuries as a way to signal the start of a realization or a confrontation. It is pure rhythmic skepticism.
Heard in
Nationwide
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