boo

¹

[boo]

interjection

1. (used to express contempt or disapprobation or to startle or frighten.)

noun

plural

boos 

1. an exclamation of contempt or disapproval.

   a loud boo from the bleachers.

verb (used without object)

booed, booing 

1. to cry boo in derision.

verb (used with object)

booed, booing 

1. to show disapproval of by booing.

boo

²

[boo, boh]

noun

1. Slang.,  marijuana.

boo

³

[boo]

noun

Slang.

1. one's boyfriend or girlfriend.

boo

/ buː /

interjection

1. an exclamation uttered to startle or surprise someone, esp a child

2. a shout uttered to express disgust, dissatisfaction, or contempt, esp at a theatrical production, political meeting, etc

3. is extremely timid or diffident

verb

1. to shout "boo" at (someone or something), esp as an expression of disgust, dissatisfaction, or disapproval

   to boo the actors

Word History and Origins

Origin of boo¹

First recorded in 1630–40; expressive formation

Origin of boo²

First recorded in 1955–60; of uncertain origin

Origin of boo³

1985–90; of uncertain origin; possibly an alteration of French beau “boyfriend, admirer”

Example Sentences

Smith, 36, has been a regular target of chants and boos from England supporters following his role in the 2018 ball-tampering scandal.

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The boos from England's fans were inevitable - the subsequent chants too.

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Smith, booed to the crease by the travelling fans, edged to second slip, then Khawaja gloved a spiteful lifter.

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They've had more than enough opportunity over the years, more than enough horrible defeats overseen by coaches that weren't up to it, and yet it's hard to remember booing in that time.

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Denmark were booed off at the end of their draw with Belarus, head coach Brian Riemer was furious at their performance and there is a stomach bug in their camp they fear might spread.

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Related Words

• heckle 
• hiss 
• holler 
• hoot 
• jeer 

When To Use

What else does boo mean?

Boo is the sound we pretend ghosts make as well as a sound we make when we really don’t like something.Boo is also an affectionate term for one's significant other, similar to bae.