phew
interjection
- expressing relief
Wiktionary
Pronunciation: /fjuː/ / [ɸj̊u̥˥˩] / /fɪu̯/
intj
Etymology: Attested since the early 17th century. An onomatopoeia for rapid exhalation, as one may make when a trying situation is over, or in order to get rid of an unpleasant odour. Compare Scots feuch, Spanish fu, Czech fuj, and many more such forms.
- Used to express relief of tension, fatigue, or surprise.
“Phew, that took a long time to cook!”
- Used to show disgust.
“Phew, it stinks in here!”