What does po mean?
In British English, “po” is an informal euphemism for faeces. It is particularly associated with the vocabulary used with young children, although adults may also use it casually or humorously. The noun can refer either to the substance itself or to a single instance: “There was a po on the floor.” The related form “poo” is considerably more common and is not restricted to British usage. By contrast, “po” is chiefly a British term, and neutral or clinical contexts generally favour “faeces” or “stool.” Its brevity and euphemistic character make it suitable for sensitive situations involving children, while its deliberately informal tone also gives it a humorous, sometimes exaggerated quality in adult conversation.
nounAn informal euphemism for faeces. The word is chiefly used by young children and in casual speech.
- An informal, euphemistic term for faeces.
- A single instance of faeces.
"The dog made a po on the lawn."
"There was a po on the kitchen floor."
"The parents found a po in the baby's disposable nappy."
The plural is rarely needed or used in ordinary conversation, but it is regular in dictionaries.
"The puppies left several pos on the grass."
“Po” is British English's particularly child-friendly name for one of the less child-friendly realities of daily life.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does po come from?
The precise origin of “po” is uncertain. It appears to be a shortened or simplified form of the longer nursery word “poo,” whose own sound-based origin is associated with early child speech. The abbreviated form became established in informal British usage, particularly as a euphemism used with children.
How po is actually used
This is an informal British word, especially common in speech involving young children. In formal or sensitive contexts, use a more neutral or medical term such as “faeces” or “stool.”
Easily confused with po
Both are informal terms for faeces, but “poo” is the more common in British speech, whereas “po” is a shorter, chiefly child-directed euphemism.