Many people often use the phrase “o’clock” without understanding what the “o” actually stands for. A woman on social media asked her followers the meaning of the “o” in “o’clock.” Various responses were provided, including suggestions that it stood for “zero,” “oida,” “Omega,” and more. Some individuals claimed that it was a contraction of the phrase “of the clock,” which was used to differentiate between using a sundial and a clock for telling time.
Despite the plethora of responses, some users were still curious about the origin of the phrase “o’clock.” The answer was soon revealed, indicating that the “o” actually stands for “of the.” According to experts at the Britannica Dictionary, the term “o’clock” is a contraction of “of the clock,” which was historically used to specify time according to the clock. Over time, the phrase “of the” was shortened to just “O,” leading to the commonly used phrase “o’clock” today.
The explanation provided is similar to other phrases, such as “OK” or “okay,” whose origins have also been revealed. In the 1820s and 1830s, humorists deliberately misspelled popular phrases, including “all right” becoming “O.W.” for “oll wright” and “all correct” becoming “o.k.” for “oll correct.” These misspellings were used as humorous abbreviations by individuals adopting uneducated personas with cringey spellings. Understanding the origin of these phrases provides insight into the development of language and the evolution of common expressions.
The discussion surrounding the meaning of the “o” in “o’clock” highlights how common phrases can be used without a clear understanding of their origins. By questioning the meaning of these phrases, individuals can gain a deeper appreciation for language and its development over time. Understanding the evolution of words and phrases can provide valuable insights into how language changes and adapts to different contexts and cultures.
Overall, the revelation that the “o” in “o’clock” stands for “of the” sheds light on a commonly used phrase that many people may not have fully understood. By exploring the origins of common expressions, individuals can gain a better understanding of language and how it evolves over time. This curiosity about language and its history can lead to a deeper appreciation for the words and phrases we use daily, enhancing our communication and connection with others.
