English Reference
Noun

hoe

n. countable
C2 Proficiency US /ˈhoʊ/ UK /hˈəʊ/ hoe UK spelling hoe's, hoe's

n.a very rude and insulting word for a woman. It is slang that people use to suggest someone has many sexual partners.

n.a derogatory and highly offensive term for a woman, typically implying promiscuity. Often used in hip-hop culture and online spaces as a provocative or reclaimed label.


SIMPLE

He got into trouble for calling her a hoe.

CONTEXTUAL

The lyrics were criticized for using terms like hoe, which many listeners found misogynistic and disrespectful.

COMPLEX

While some artists argue they are reclaiming the word hoe to strip it of its power, it remains a deeply polarizing and frequently banned term in professional broadcasting.

Usage

Often spelled 'ho' in informal writing; the plural can be 'hoes' or 'hos'.

Pitfall
She is a hoe.She is a woman.

This is a highly offensive slur; using it in a professional or general social context is likely to cause serious offense.

Slice them off at or just below the soil line with a hoe.

The Conversation· 10 Sept 2026

Behind her hundreds of people work side by side, hacking into the rocky ground with hoes and shovels.

BBC News· 22 Aug 2026
This entry
Level C2 · Proficiency
Frequency Frequent
Updated