thingo
noun · casual
A thing whose name you can't remember.
How Aussies use it
- Can you pass me the thingo, the remote?
- Where's the thingo for opening the bottles?
How to pronounce ‘thingo’
Say it like this: THING-oh
‘thingo’ in a conversation
Chris: Have you seen the thingo for the printer?
Kim: The cable? It's in the top drawer.
Good to know
A handy word when the right word won't come to you. Australians often add -o to words, like 'servo' and 'bottle-o'.
Where you'll hear ‘thingo’
You'll hear 'thingo' at home and between friends, when someone can't remember the name of an object. It's often said while pointing: 'Pass me that thingo.'
How to reply or use it yourself
If someone asks for 'the thingo', look where they're pointing or ask 'Which one, the remote?' You can use it yourself in relaxed chats when a word won't come to you.
More examples
- Where did you put the thingo for the barbecue?
- I need one of those thingos that holds the door open.
- He fixed it with a little metal thingo from his toolbox.
🎧 Recorded with Australian AI voices (Bec and Davo from our Listening Room), so you hear a natural Aussie accent on every device.
A common mistake
It's fine with friends, but at work try to describe it: 'the cable for the printer'.
Saying it more formally
In a formal email, essay or the PTE test, use thing / whatsit instead.
Slang is great for chatting with friends and workmates, but keep it out of PTE essays and formal writing.
Fill the gap
Which word goes in the gap?
Can you pass me the ___? You know, the thing for opening jars.
Show the answer
thingo
Quick check
What does ‘thingo’ mean?
- A thing whose name you can't remember.
- Afternoon.
- Genuinely Australian; loyal and honest.
Show the answer
A. A thing whose name you can't remember.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'thingo' mean in Australia?
A thing whose name you can't remember. A handy word when the right word won't come to you. Australians often add -o to words, like 'servo' and 'bottle-o'.
Can I say 'thingo' at work?
With workmates, yes. 'thingo' is fine in a chat at smoko or a casual message, but don't use it with clients, in formal emails, or in the PTE and IELTS writing tests.
How do you pronounce 'thingo'?
Say it like this: THING-oh. Press 'Hear it' on this page to listen.
When do Australians say 'thingo'?
You'll hear 'thingo' at home and between friends, when someone can't remember the name of an object. It's often said while pointing: 'Pass me that thingo.'