Word
hoe
US/ˈhoʊ/
UK/hˈəʊ/
Countable noun
Definition
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.
Examples
“He got into trouble for calling her a hoe.”
“The lyrics were criticized for using terms like hoe, which many listeners found misogynistic and disrespectful.”
“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.”
Examples
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.
Real-World Examples
“Slice them off at or just below the soil line with a hoe.” “Behind her hundreds of people work side by side, hacking into the rocky ground with hoes and shovels.” Related words
Idioms
01. hoe one's row
02. long row to hoe
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C2 ProficiencyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.8.5–9.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 6.0114–120
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- C2 · Proficiency
- Updated
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