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

Day began to break; the shores of the Frith became dimly visible; the Bass, like a fixed cloud, appeared on the distant horizon; it was more than half-tide; and, as he stood upon the pier, he heard the yo-heave-ho! of seamen proceeding from a smack which lay on the south side of the harbour, by the lowest bridge.

From Project Gutenberg

There they stand, six or eight stalwart sunburnt fellows, ranged in a row in the "seine" boat, hauling with all their might at the "tuck" net, and roaring the regular nautical "Yo-heave-ho!" in chorus!

From Project Gutenberg

Three of our seamen instantly set their backs against it, and with a “Yo-heave-ho,” they forced it in.

From Project Gutenberg

And it's Yo-heave-ho! on the briny billows in a bouncing brigantine!

From Project Gutenberg

“Avast heavin’!” and once the “Yo-heave-ho!” chanted by a chorus of the crew.

From Project Gutenberg