whoa, Nelly
English edit
Etymology edit
From whoa! (a command to slow or stop) + Nelly (a common name for a mule or horse). A popular catch-phrase, together with "Whoa, Nellybelle" on the Roy Rogers TV show (1951–1957).
Interjection edit
- an exclamation of surprise, especially one in response to an unexpected acceleration of speed
- 2020 June 17, The Denver Gazette[1]:
- ...the jeep’s brakes never quite worked, even when Brady uttered the catch phrases "Whoa, Nellybelle" or "Whoa, Nelly."