ta ta
Definition from Wiktionary, the free dictionary
See also Appendix:Variations of "tata"
Contents |
English [edit]
Alternative forms [edit]
Etymology [edit]
Probably derived from baby talk c1823 (imitative).
Pronunciation [edit]
Interjection [edit]
ta ta
- (chiefly UK, Australia, New Zealand, informal, colloquial) Goodbye.
- 1917, Henry Handel Richardson, Australia Felix, 2007, The Echo Library, page 229,
- “ […] Well, ta-ta, sweetheart! Don′t expect me back to lunch.”
- 1923 (recorded 1900), Ed Smith (Cranbrook Courier), Reminiscences of Kootenay Pioneers, recalling an event claimed to be the origin of the place name Ta Ta Creek; viewed in British Columbia archives),
- Red put the spurs to his horse and galloped away: “Ta ta, friends, I′ve business up the trail.”
- 1967, Joan Lindsay, Picnic at Hanging Rock, page 55,
- ‘No more questions? Then I′ll be off. Ta-ta.’
- 1917, Henry Handel Richardson, Australia Felix, 2007, The Echo Library, page 229,
Synonyms [edit]
Usage notes [edit]
Dated and rarely used in North America. Although likely to be understood, it is likely to be considered rather humorous, particularly if used in a parody of British English speakers.
