Ope

Ope (exclamation / US Slang)

(Also heard as: Oop, Ope, sorry, Ope, just gonna squeeze past)

Definition:

Ope is a quick, polite sound people make when they bump into someone, drop something or need to squeeze past. It is like a tiny “oops” or “excuse me”.

Where Ope Comes From:

It is a Midwestern US habit, heard most in states like Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin and Minnesota. It is thought to come from “oops” and is linked to Midwestern politeness.

How People Actually Use Ope:

Said automatically in awkward moments: bumping a shopping trolley, reaching past someone in a shop, or dropping a pen. It is often followed by “sorry” or “just gonna squeeze past you there”.

Is Ope Rude?

Not rude. It is polite and friendly, and Midwesterners joke about saying it constantly.

Examples in the Wild:

• “Ope, sorry, didn’t see you there.”Meaning: Sorry, I nearly bumped into you.
• “Ope, just gonna sneak right past you.”Meaning: Excuse me, I need to get by.
• “Ope, dropped my keys again.”Meaning: Oops, I dropped my keys.

Similar Slang:

Yikes, Blimey, Y’all, Bruh

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