Added 9 October 2026
boo
/buː/ symbol
Latin root: boō Coined: a coined word Wiktionary
symbol Definition from Wiktionary (CC BY-SA). Pronunciation from Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org. More about boo at Wordnik → Where our words come from →
interjection
- A loud exclamation intended to scare someone. Usually used when one has been hidden from the target, and then appears unexpectedly. Often used in playful or jokeful context.
- An exclamation used by a member of an audience, as at a stage play or sporting event, to indicate derision or disapproval.
noun
- A derisive shout of the word 'boo' made to indicate disapproval.
verb
-
To shout extended boos derisively.
When he took the podium, the crowd booed.
-
To shout extended boos at, as a form of disapproval or derision.
The protesters loudly booed the visiting senator.
Origin
From earlier (15c.) boh, coined to create a loud and startling sound. Compare Middle English bus! (“bang!”, interjection), Latin boō (“cry aloud, roar, shout”, verb), Ancient Greek βοάω (boáō, “shout”, verb).
From Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org (CC BY-SA)