hurrah
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /hərˈɑː/
US
- /hʊˈrɑ/
Description
- joyful shout
- cheer
- expression of triumph
A "hurrah" is more than just a word. It is the kind of cheerful shout that bursts out when something goes well. Picture a team winning a close game, a crowd greeting good news, or someone finally finishing a long, difficult task. That excited cry of approval or triumph is a hurrah. People use it to show joy, support, or celebration. In modern English, it can sound a little old-fashioned, but it still carries warm, lively energy. You might shout "Hurrah!" after a success, or say "Hurrah for the winners!" when you want to celebrate someone else.
"Hurrah" is an exclamation people use to express joy, approval, encouragement, or triumph. It is the kind of word that fits moments of celebration: a team has won, a journey is over, a friend has succeeded, or a piece of good news has just arrived. When someone cries "Hurrah!", they are not calmly stating a fact. They are joining the moment with open excitement.
The word has a long history and has been used in public cheering, group celebrations, and cries of support. It has often appeared beside similar exclamations such as "hooray" and "huzzah." In earlier writing and speech, it was common in crowds, parades, political events, and other noisy public scenes. Today, it is still easy to understand, though it often sounds a bit old-fashioned, playful, or literary compared with the more common "hooray."
You can use "hurrah" on its own as a direct shout: "Hurrah! We made it at last!" You can also use it before "for" to cheer for a person, group, or result: "Hurrah for the home team!" In tone, it is informal, spirited, and strongly positive. It is not usually used for quiet happiness or private reflection; it belongs to shared excitement, open praise, and festive moments. In short, "hurrah" is a bright, lively cry that turns joy into sound.
Examples
- 1
Excited cheer
"Hurrah!" the children shouted when the fireworks began.
- 2
Ironic reaction
Hurrah, the internet is down again.
Usage
often ironic
said when you are annoyed, not pleased
- 3
Final event
Many fans saw the reunion concert as the band's last hurrah.
Phrase
last hurrah
a final success or important event before something ends
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- hurrahnounverb