There are so many different greetings. Think about how you introduce yourself with a “welcome,” “hello,” “howdy,” maybe a “how are you?” You could also go more physical, a high-five or a fist bump suffices. But when it comes to a farewell, options are much more limited. Of course, a “goodbye” or the shortened “bye” is available, maybe a hug or an “I’ll miss you,”, but really, if you want something more fun you’re stuck searching the dictionaries of other languages, and hoping that the other person knows that little bit of Italian or Spanish. Luckily, a perfect word exists in English: whimsical but not too personal, playful but not immature. I present: “Toodle-oo,” a word that adds a mystic touch to your departure.
Of British heritage, the term is, as noted by the “Merriam-Webster dictionary,” of unknown etymology, though possibly derived from the sound of an automobile horn or, according to the “Oxford dictionary,” a branch off the French “à tout à l’heure.” The mysterious wonder of a seemingly spawned word simply adds to the curious nature of “toodle-oo,” which, despite its questionable origin, does have a correct spelling. In American English, “toodaloo” is often recognized, mainly used in more informal settings, but in the homeland of the United Kingdom, “toodle-oo” follows much closer to historical usage.
Currently, “toodle-oo” isn’t particularly common. However, it is occasionally used alongside other goodbyes, like in the musical “Hairspray,” with terms such as “arrivederci” and “ciao,” or combined with other words like season two, episode 3 of “The Sopranos” titled “Toodle-*****-Oo,” where “toodle-oo” is used as a farwell. Yet, the most widely recognized use of the word, or rather its shortened form, is from “Mickey Mouse Clubhouse,” with the significant character being named “Toodles,” leading to the phrase, “Oh Toodles!” being said approximately 125 times over the show’s four seasons. Though this use is not a farewell, it is recognized by parents and children, garnering YouTube compilations and webpages.
“Toodle-oo” stands out from typical goodbyes; its lighthearted whimsy gives way to more interesting interactions. While it may not be the most commonly used term, its charm and personality can make saying goodbye feel more memorable. So, the next time you depart, sprinkle some character with a cheerful “toodles.” Embrace the joy, first impressions matter, but last ones should too, so I am choosing to end my series of guest columns with a “toodle-oo.”
