What does bravo mean?
'Bravo' is an exclamation used to express warm approval or admiration, most often shouted by an audience after an outstanding musical, operatic, or theatrical performance. Borrowed directly from Italian, where 'bravo' means 'brave' or 'skilful', the word entered English in the late eighteenth century alongside the fashion for Italian opera, and it has kept its continental flavour ever since. In modern English it can function as an interjection ('Bravo! Well done.'), as a countable noun ('the bravos rang through the hall'), or even as a verb meaning to applaud someone with cries of bravo. Its connotations are almost entirely positive and slightly elevated or theatrical; it suggests more than polite clapping — genuine, vocal enthusiasm. A traditional variant, 'brava', may be addressed to a female performer, reflecting the word's Italian grammatical gender, though many English speakers simply use 'bravo' regardless. Whether spoken sincerely or with playful irony, 'bravo' remains the classic way to salute a job triumphantly done.
Used to express approval or applause, especially after a performance.
"'Bravo!' shouted the audience as the curtain fell."
Functions as a complete utterance on its own.
A cry or shout of 'bravo'; an expression of enthusiastic approval.
"Her aria was met with bravos from every corner of the theatre."
To applaud or praise someone with cries of 'bravo'.
"The crowd bravoed the violinist until she returned for a third encore."
Both spellings are accepted; 'bravos' is the more common modern form.
"The soloist bowed again and again amid the bravos."
The word you shout at the opera is literally Italian for 'brave' — so when you yell 'Bravo!', you're really calling the performer courageous.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of bravo
'Bravo' comes from Italian, where it means 'brave, bold' or 'fine, skilful'. The Italian adjective's own deeper origin is disputed — it has been traced to various sources, including Latin — so its ultimate ancestry remains uncertain. The exclamatory use spread across Europe with the popularity of Italian opera in the eighteenth century, entering English around that time. It shares its Romance heritage with related words such as 'bravado' and ultimately connects to the family of words around 'brave' and 'bravery'.
Related word forms
How bravo is actually used
As a standalone exclamation it functions like an interjection ('Bravo!'). The traditional feminine form 'brava' is sometimes used for female performers, following Italian grammar, though this distinction is often not observed in English. The word carries a tone of enthusiastic, sometimes formal appreciation, most common in musical and theatrical settings.
Easily confused with bravo
'Bravo' is an exclamation or shout of praise, while 'bravado' is a noun meaning a bold, swaggering display of courage intended to impress others.