lo and behold
Definition from Wiktionary, the free dictionary
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[edit] English
[edit] Etymology
The lo from the expression likely originated from the shortening of the word loke, commonly seen in Middle English texts. Its presence in literature can be traced as far back as the 1800s. The literal meaning of the expression is "look and see", and it is always used as if in the imperative.
[edit] Interjection
- Used to express surprise.
- And then, lo and behold, she returned!
[edit] Usage notes
- Often used ironically or humorously.
[edit] Translations
used to express surprise
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