In the more recent [writers] it is spoken by women only,[1] like the [phrase] "o wretch"; but in the ancient ones by men also. And [it is used] in Aristophanes' Knights[2] and in Plato's Theatetus.[3] Menander in She Who Loves [writes]: "send the fellow away! Why are you knocking, o friend?"[4] He means o wretched man, o wicked man. But some [say that it means] o one who is worthy of care and, in effect, one who has been cared for.[5]
An epithet, that is, o wickedest, o one possessed by the most evil genius, o most contemptible.[6]