whew - What does it mean?

'whew' hits on the web

(en-interj)

An expressive sound made indicating the release of one's inner tension; the release of breath; an expression of relief.

(from strenuous labour) Whew! That box weighs a ton!

(from intense concern) Whew! Thank goodness you?re safe! I thought something terrible had happened to you!

(from fear of being seen) Whew! That cop didn?t see me! That was a close call!

An expression of amazement or surprise.

* 1981 , , revised edition, chapter 1,

"...Now I must be off. Whew , it's as cold as the North Pole. Which way is the wind blowing?"

* (expressing relief of tension) fyew, phew, (chiefly UK) lumme * (expressing surprise) wow

(en-verb)

(UK|Scotland|dialect) To whistle with a shrill pipe, like a plover.