do tell

English

Etymology

Abbreviation of the hortative phrase “please do tell me more.”

Phrase

do tell

1. An idiomatic expression of mild interest or surprise within a conversational context.

   Synonyms: (archaic) pray tell, oh really, I declare, you don't say, is that so

   You say you're an astronaut? Do tell.

Usage notes

• Often used sarcastically.
• Chiefly southern U.S. usage.

Further reading

• “do tell”, in Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary, Springfield, Mass.: Merriam-Webster, 1996–present.
• “do tell”, in Collins English Dictionary.

Anagrams

• tolled