The correct spelling of the popular children's song and dance is "Hokey Pokey," not "Hokey Pokeys." The IPA transcription of the correct spelling is /ˈhoʊki ˈpoʊki/. The word "hokey" means fake or contrived, while "pokey" means slow or sluggish. The dance involves participants putting body parts in and out while following the lyrics of the song. The origins of the song are unclear, but it gained popularity in the 1950s and has since become a staple in children's parties and playtime activities.
Hokey pokeys is a term that can have two distinct meanings, depending on the context in which it is used. The first definition refers to a popular children's song and dance that goes by the same name. The hokey pokey, also sometimes called the hokey cokey, is a playful and interactive dance performed in a group setting. It involves participants standing in a circle and following the actions instructed in the song's lyrics, such as putting their right foot, left foot, right hand, left hand, and various body parts in and out while turning around. The hokey pokey is often enjoyed at parties, children's events, and in school settings as a form of entertainment and physical activity.
The term "hokey pokeys" can also denote a frozen treat or ice cream dessert popularized in New Zealand and other parts of the world. It typically consists of a cylindrical shape of ice cream on a stick, coated in a layer of chocolate or caramel and rolled in crushed nuts or other toppings. This definition of hokey pokeys describes a sweet and indulgent dessert enjoyed by people of all ages, particularly during the summertime or as a special treat. Hokey pokeys are often found in ice cream parlors, confectionery shops, and at beachside kiosks, offering a delicious and refreshing snack option for those seeking a cold, sugary delight.
The word "hokey pokeys" does not have a specific etymology as it is not an established or recognized term. However, "hokey pokey" has historical origins. It is a term used to refer to a kind of ice cream that is sold on a stick and covered in a hard caramel coating. The exact origin of the term is unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the United States in the mid-19th century. Some suggest that "hokey pokey" might have derived from "hocus pocus", a phrase used by street vendors in England who sold a similar type of ice cream. However, as for the plural form "hokey pokeys", it seems to be a colloquial variation or a playful adaptation of the original term.