1
a command (as to a draft animal) to stand still
2
: cease or slow a course of action or a line of thought : pause to consider or reconsider
often used to express a strong reaction (such as alarm or astonishment)

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web The Ford came to a stop from 70 mph in 138 feet, whereas the Nissan took 166 feet to whoa down. Elana Scherr, Car and Driver, 27 June 2022

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'whoa.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English whoo, who

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of whoa was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near whoa

Cite this Entry

“Whoa.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/whoa. Accessed 7 Dec. 2022.

Kids Definition

whoa

imperative verb
ˈwō How to pronounce whoa (audio) ˈhō How to pronounce whoa (audio)
ˈhwō
1
used as a command to an animal to stop pulling or moving
2
: step or slow a course of action or a line of thought : pause to consider or reconsider
often used to express a strong reaction (as alarm or astonishment)
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