WordGarden.iocheer
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /tʃˈiə/
US
- /ˈtʃɪr/
Meanings
Verb
to shout approval, support, or encouragement
to make someone feel happier or more hopeful
Noun
a shout or chant of approval or encouragement
a happy, hopeful mood
Beyond the definition
Cheer isn't just about shouting at a football game—though it definitely includes that! It is the feeling of happiness and optimism you share with others, or the deliberate act of lifting someone’s spirits. While a fan cheers for (or cheers on) their favorite team, you might also cheer up a friend who is feeling down. Interestingly, the word comes from an Old French term meaning “face” or “expression.” Originally, it referred to the look on your face that revealed your inner mood. Today, when you offer someone cheer, you are helping that look brighten into a smile through music, laughter, or simply being there for them.
The word "cheer" encompasses both a feeling and an action; it is about experiencing joy and actively spreading it to others. At its core, cheer represents happiness, optimism, and encouragement.
As a noun, cheer refers to a joyful spirit or mood. To say "the holiday season is filled with cheer" suggests a time of merriment, hospitality, and goodwill. You might describe someone as having a "cheerful disposition," meaning they possess a naturally happy and positive outlook on life. In a more literal sense, a "cheer" is also a specific shout of praise or a rhythmic chant performed by a group to boost morale and inspire enthusiasm.
As a verb, "cheer" means to encourage someone enthusiastically. You can see this in the way a crowd "cheers wildly" when a goal is scored. However, it also functions as a way to brighten someone's mood. You can cheer up a friend with kind words, a funny story, or a thoughtful gesture after they've had a difficult day.
Whether it is an internal feeling of gladness, a vocal expression of support, or a deliberate act of kindness, "cheer" is all about positivity and the wonderful power of lifting the spirits of yourself and those around you.
Examples
- 1
Sports crowd
The crowd cheered when the home team scored.
- 2
Public support
We stood by the road and cheered for the runners.
- Patterncheer for + person/team
show support for them
- 3
Encouragement
Her friends cheered her on during the last mile of the race.
- Patterncheer someone on
encourage them to keep going
- 4
Emotional support
A message from his sister cheered him up after the interview.
- Patterncheer someone up
make them feel happier
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Reassurance
Cheer up, you can try again tomorrow.
- 6
Public reaction
A loud cheer went up when the winner's name was announced.
- 7
Holiday mood
The town square was full of holiday cheer in December.
- 8
Public praise
Three cheers for the volunteers who stayed late to clean up.
- Phrasethree cheers for ...
a way of praising or celebrating someone
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- cheer for the team
- cheer someone on
- cheer from the sidelines
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- cheernounverb
Forms
- cheerspluralnounverb
- cheering-ing formverbnoun
- cheeredpast tenseverbnoun