Did you ask someone for something, and they reply with ‘okey dokey?’ What do they mean? Will they comply with your request? This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression.
Meaning
The expression ‘okey dokey’ is another form of the word ‘okay.’ It’s a confirmation statement to let the other person know you will comply with their request. It also serves as a way to brush someone off if they tell you to do something or to behave in a certain manner.
‘Okey dokey’ indicates that everything is well when someone asks you about something in your life. For instance, you could use it to describe how things are at work or at home. ‘Okey dokey’ is a common phrase, and people of all age groups will understand its meaning.
Example Usage
"Okey dokey, I'll get that file to you by the end of the day, unless you need it sooner? Let me know, and I'll make it happen.'
"Okey dokey, let's get this into the freezer before it melts. We can't afford it to melt into a mess at the price they charge for a pint these days."
"Do you want me to grab some soda from the store on my way home? Okey dokey, I'll pick up a couple of burgers from In-and-Out while I'm at it."
Origin
The expression 'okey dokey' originates from the early 20th century. The term's first appearance in print was in 1932 in an edition of 'American Speech.' Several spellings exist for the phrase, including okay-doke, okee-doke, okey-doke, and others.
'The Simpsons' character, Ned Flanders, popularized the version, 'okily dokily' in the animated series during the 1990s. Essentially, all variations of the saying mean 'okay' and an expression of compliance to another person's request or actions.
The first example of the alternative spelling for 'okey dokey' appears in 'City of Spades,' written in 1957 by Colin MacInnes. The phrase appears as follows.
"One Guinness stout, right, I thank you, okey-doke, here it is."
Phrases Similar to Okey Dokey
- Sure
- No problem.
- Let’s do it.
- Okily dokily.
Phrases Opposite to Okey Dokey
- No way.
- No chance.
- Not on your life.
What is the Correct Saying?
- Okey Dokey.
Ways People May Say Okey Dokey Incorrectly
Some people may use the phrase ‘okily dokily’ to replace ‘okey dokey.’ This version of the term originates from ‘Ned Flanders’ in the animated series ‘the Simpsons.’ While it’s not the correct version, it’s well-known and used more frequently than ‘okey dokey.’
Acceptable Ways to Phrase Okey Dokey
You can use the phrase ‘okey dokey’ as a confirmation statement when someone requests something from you or instructs you to complete a task. It’s a way of saying that you understand what they said and are willing to comply. You can use it sarcastically when you want to tell someone that everything isn’t okay.
The phrase suits professional and social use. You could use it at work when the boss requests you to bring them a file. You could use it at home when your partner asks you to do the dishes. Use it with friends to show you’re in agreement with going to a restaurant.