hooray
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /hˈɔːreɪ/
US
- /hʊˈreɪ/
Description
- Cheer of joy
- Celebration
- Excited shout
- Triumph
- Enthusiastic approval
"Hooray!" isn't just a word—it's a burst of happiness shouted aloud! It's the sound you make when something good happens, like finishing a tough project, winning a game, or simply having a really great day. Think of a parade, a surprise party, or a team scoring a goal—those are moments ripe for a hearty "Hooray!"
Its exact origin is uncertain, but today it is widely understood as a joyful shout. You might yell "Hooray!" when someone shares good news, when a plan finally works out, or even just to lift your own spirits. It's pure, simple joy expressed in one little word!
"Hooray!" is an interjection—a word or phrase expressing strong emotion—specifically, joyful excitement and enthusiastic approval. It's more than just saying "yes" or "good"; it's a vocal celebration of something positive happening or about to happen.
You'll often hear "hooray" used in group settings, like at sporting events ("Hooray for the home team!") or during celebrations ("Hooray! It's your birthday!"). But you can also use it privately, as a little internal cheer when you achieve something personal. Imagine finally understanding a difficult concept—a quiet "hooray" might slip out!
While often associated with childhood and simple pleasures, "hooray" isn't limited to kids. It's used across all ages and cultures to express genuine delight. You might read about it in literature describing festive occasions or hear it in songs celebrating victories.
Sometimes, "hooray" can also be used sarcastically—a playful way of reacting to something annoying or disappointing with mock excitement. But in most cases, it's a direct expression of joy, a little burst of positivity meant to share and amplify good feelings. So next time something wonderful happens, don't hesitate to let out a resounding "Hooray!"—it's contagious!
Examples
- 1
Weekend excitement
Hooray, the weekend starts tomorrow!
- 2
Victory celebration
"We won!" she shouted. "Hooray!"
- 3
Praise
Hooray for whoever fixed the coffee machine.
Pattern
hooray for + person/thing
used to praise or celebrate someone or something
- 4
Sarcasm
Oh, hooray, another meeting that could have been an email.
Usage
Here, hooray is sarcastic, so the speaker is actually annoyed.
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- hooraynoun