expressions - Where does "ta!" come from?


Where does the expression "ta" come from?


Wikipedia has only this to say:



"ta!", slang, Exclam. Thank you! {Informal}, an expression of gratitude



but no additional information or links about its genesis.


I have only ever heard it from englishmen and -women. Is it used anywhere else in the world? How did it come about? What is its history?



Answer



Online Etymology Dictionary says:



ta: 1772, "natural infantile sound of gratitude" [Weekley].



Although possibly originating from the imitative of baby talk, this is in widespread use in the North of England and Wales as an informal "thanks" amongst adults.


American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language says:



ta: Chiefly British
Used to express thanks.
ETYMOLOGY:
Baby-talk alteration of "thank you".



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