hey presto

The phrase "hey presto" is often used in British English to describe something happening suddenly and effortlessly, akin to a magic trick.

πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ US Voice:
πŸ‡¬πŸ‡§ UK Voice:

Definition

B2General

(colloquial, British)An exclamation signaling that something has happened quickly and effortlessly, often in a surprising or magical way.

Example

  • He waved his wand, and hey presto, the rabbit appeared out of the hat!
  • She pressed a button, and hey presto, the machine started working again.

B2Magic

(colloquial, British)Used by magicians to highlight the completion of a magic trick.

Example

  • The magician said 'hey presto' as he pulled a coin from behind her ear.