Upper-class British exclamation for attention or surprise.
I say
Etymology & History
Upper-class British exclamation for attention or surprise. From 'I say!' as attention-getter. Strongly associated with upper-class 'posh' speech, particularly pre-WWII. Now often used mockingly to imitate posh accents. Class marker in language.
Word Details
📍
Region
General British
📅
Era
Modern
✓
Language
Mild
💬
Formality
Informal
Categories:
Learn Another Word
🔀 Shuffle & Discover
Anglotopia's Dictionary of British English 2nd Edition
British Slang from A to Zed
By Jonathan Thomas
📚 Over 2,000+ British Slang Definitions!