The Curious Origin of the Word “OK”
The word “OK” is one of the most widely recognized and frequently used terms in the world. From casual conversation to international diplomacy, text messages to formal speeches, “OK” is a linguistic staple. But for such a small word with such a big presence, its origins are surprisingly colorful and debated.
The Birth of “OK”: A 19th Century Fad
Most linguists and historians trace the origin of “OK” to a linguistic trend in the United States during the 1830s. At the time, Boston and New York newspaper editors, particularly those with a taste for humor and satire, delighted in abbreviating phrases and intentionally misspelling words for comic effect. It was a playful fad that included examples like “KY” for “know yuse” (no use) and “OW” for “oll wright” (all right).
Amid this quirky trend, “OK” was born as an abbreviation of “oll korrect,” a humorous misspelling of “all correct.” It first appeared in print in the Boston Morning Post on March 23, 1839, in a satirical article. This particular instance might have faded into obscurity like many of the other jokey acronyms—except for a twist of political fate.
“OK” Enters Politics
In the 1840 presidential election, supporters of President Martin Van Buren popularized the term “OK” as a campaign slogan. Van Buren, a native of Kinderhook, New York, was nicknamed “Old Kinderhook.” His campaigners formed “OK Clubs” around the country, using the catchy abbreviation to appeal to voters. Although Van Buren lost the election to William Henry Harrison, “OK” had gained national visibility and stuck in the public consciousness.
Competing Theories and Myths
While the “oll korrect” explanation is the most widely accepted among historians, “OK” has inspired a variety of other theories over the years:
Choctaw Theory: Some claim that “OK” came from the Choctaw word “okeh,” meaning “it is so.” This explanation gained traction with missionaries and scholars in the 19th century and was even supported by President Woodrow Wilson, who used “okeh” in his own correspondence.
African Origin: Some linguists have suggested that “OK” may have roots in African languages brought to America by enslaved people, where similar-sounding expressions conveyed agreement or approval.
German, Greek, and Scottish Roots: Other theories point to various phrases in European languages—such as “alles korrekt” in German or “och aye” in Scottish English—as possible origins. However, these lack strong historical documentation compared to the “oll korrect” narrative.
OK Goes Global
Despite its humble and humorous beginnings, “OK” quickly transcended its American roots. Its simplicity and versatility made it easy to adopt into other languages and cultures. Today, “OK” is understood almost everywhere in the world and is used in countless ways—as an adjective, noun, verb, adverb, and interjection.
The Enduring Legacy
From newspaper jokes to presidential campaigns, from typewritten letters to digital texts, “OK” has carved out an extraordinary place in linguistic history. Its story reflects how language evolves not only through formal rules but also through play, humor, and human creativity.
In a world full of complex expressions, perhaps the enduring appeal of “OK” lies in its perfect simplicity: two letters, endless uses, and a history that’s more than just oll korrect.
OK is the word that I probably use the most when responding to my wife, Chef Dolores.
Thanks to Carol Williams for encouraging us to learn more about our presidents.
Orchids, Longwood Gardens, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania USA IMG 0402
Canon PowerShot G11 Camera
Photograph by Roy Kelley
Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs
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