sheesh

Meanings

1. 1interjectioninformal

   Used to show mild annoyance, impatience, disbelief, or exasperation.

   Grammar: An exclamation, often used alone or at the beginning of a sentence. It is informal and mainly American.

   Patterns

   • sheesh, ...
   • oh, sheesh

   Sheesh, it's hot today!

   Sheesh, do we really have to wait another hour?

   Sheesh, I can't believe he said that.

2. 2interjectioninformalslang

   Used by younger speakers, especially online, to show admiration or surprise at something impressive.

   Grammar: This sense is newer and mostly used in internet slang. It can express positive amazement.

   Patterns

   • sheesh!
   • sheesh, that's ...

   Sheesh, that trick shot was amazing!

   Sheesh, you finished the whole project in one day?

Common combinations

sheesh, man

Sheesh, man, you scared me!

oh sheesh

Oh sheesh, I forgot my keys again.

sheesh, that's crazy

Sheesh, that's crazy — I never expected that.

Synonyms and how they differ

geez

Similar in meaning but often spelled 'jeez'; it can sound slightly more irritated or surprised than 'sheesh'.

wow

Expresses surprise or admiration, but not usually annoyance or impatience.

Practice

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