The meaning and origin of the word ‘ditto’

Several people consider ‘ditto’ as an unimportant word of recent origin. In fact the word is of Italian origin and has a glorious past. The word originated from  Italian word ‘dictus’ which means "having been said."

If something is going to be repeated again then the word “ditto” is used instead of repeating the whole thing again. The abbreviated form of ‘ditto’ is ‘do.’

The word ditto is also used if you agree with something that a person has just said. In other words, instead of saying  “I agree”, you can say ‘ditto’. 

e.g, A: “Much has already been explained.”

       B: “Ditto”

It is also used as a verb (dit·toed, dit·to·ing, dit·tos ) which means to repeat an action or statement. 

The word ‘ditto’ is symbolized by a small mark ( " ). The mark is used to indicate that the word, phrase or expression stated or given above it is to be repeated.

'Dido' and 'ditto' : Many people think that both these words have more or less the same meaning. The word “dido” means to trick someone or play a prank on someone. It is a noun.

Example, “You played a good dido on him”.