What is oy vey?

"Oy vey" is an interjection of Yiddish origin that is used to express dismay, grief, exasperation, or annoyance. It is commonly heard in Jewish communities and has permeated into wider English-speaking cultures, often used humorously or to convey light-hearted frustration.

The phrase "oy vey" comes from the Yiddish language, which has its roots in Hebrew and various German dialects. "Oy" is an expression of woe or dismay, similar to "oh" or "woe" in English, while "vey" can be compared to "woe" or "woe is me." Together, "oy vey" can be loosely translated to “oh, woe” or “oh no,” expressing a range of negative emotions depending on the context in which it is used.

"Oy vey" has been popularized in various forms of media, including television, movies, and literature, helping it become a part of colloquial speech beyond those who speak Yiddish.