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arsy-varsy

adverb
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ar·​sy-var·​sy | \ ¦ärsēˈvärsē \
variants: or arsy-versy \ -​ˈvər-​ \

Definition of arsy-varsy

 (Entry 1 of 2)

: backside forward : head over heels : topsy-turvy knocked him arsy-varsy

arsy-varsy

adjective
variants: or arsy-versy \ ¦⸗⸗¦⸗⸗ \

Definition of arsy-varsy (Entry 2 of 2)

: upside down : topsy-turvy

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History and Etymology for arsy-varsy

Adverb

reduplication (probably influenced by Latin versus) of arsy, from arse entry 1 + -y

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Cite this Entry

“Arsy-varsy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/arsy-varsy. Accessed 28 Mar. 2020.

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