cowabunga

[kou-uh-buhng-guh]

interjection

1. (a yell of exhilaration, mainly used by surfers.)

Word History and Origins

Origin of cowabunga¹

Of uncertain origin

Example Sentences

Garnering nationwide buzz since his debut Netflix special “Cowabunga,” his latest hour on Hulu finds the 28-year-old reaching the top of his game.

From Los Angeles Times

When I talked to you a couple years ago, it was right before your first special, “Cowabunga,” and I noticed with “Planet Bosa,” the energy just feels different.

From Los Angeles Times

Before his debut special “Cowabunga” hit the streamer last year, he was in a suit telling jokes on “The Tonight Show” with Jimmy Fallon, and late last year he made his HBO comedy debut in the third installment of Latin stand-up series “Entre Nos.”

From Los Angeles Times

Next, let’s look at the metallic packaging certainly worthy of a “cowabunga.”

From Washington Times

Even if you're a fan, you may struggle to recall much from the cartoon series and live-action films that followed, beyond their "Cowabunga" catchphrase and countless mentions of pizza, but you'll never forget the feel of the toys.

From Salon

When To Use

What does cowabunga mean?

Cowabunga is an interjection that expresses excitement or exhilaration, like when catching a big wave while surfing or while performing skateboarding tricks.Shouting cowabunga is roughly equivalent to shouting woo-hoo or something similar.Cowabunga is a US slang expression that is used less often these days. It seems to have premiered on the Howdy Doody TV show, spoken by Chief Thunderthud (see “Where does cowabunga come from?” below). It then became associated with first surfer culture and then skateboard (skater) culture. It was further popularized by both Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and The Simpsons’ Bart Simpson, who would say “Cowabunga!” or “Cowabunga, dude!” as a catch phrase.Example: As she rode down the big wave, Dinah yelled out "cowabunga!" and enjoyed the ride.