yo-heave-ho

[ yoh-heev-hoh ]

interjection

1. (a chant formerly shouted by sailors to maintain a steady rhythm when hauling something together.)

yo-heave-ho

/ ˌjəʊhiːvˈhəʊ /

interjection

1. a cry formerly used by sailors while pulling or lifting together in rhythm

Word History and Origins

Origin of yo-heave-ho¹

First recorded in 1795–1805

Example Sentences

The men did “hold on” most powerfully; they did more, they hauled upon the rope, hand over hand, to a “Yo-heave-ho!”

From Project Gutenberg

"nautical," however, the lack of the "Yo-heave-ho" touch in the Yankee sailor-man is by no means in his disfavour.

From Project Gutenberg

But the next instant we were ready for him, and began to haul in with a will and a "yo-heave-ho!"

From Project Gutenberg