Etymology

From the earlier form , a contraction of and . Historically, it was present in many dialects of the English language, but not in the southeastern England dialect that became the standard.

Contraction

1. are not, aren’t; is not, isn’t; am not.
2. have not, haven’t; has not, hasn’t.
3. do not, don’t; does not, doesn’t; did not, didn’t.

Usage notes

This word is commonly considered non-standard and is possibly stigmatized often based on racist issues, with its users being perceived as not as literate as the users of standard English. However, its use is common among all social classes.

Quotations

• 1885 — Gilbert & Sullivan, The Mikado

  We figure in lively paint -

  Our attitude’s queer and quaint —

  You’re wrong if you think it ain't, oh!