What does holler mean?
Holler means to shout or cry loudly, and it can also describe loudly expressing a complaint or strong opinion. The word often conveys intensity: a person may holler because they are excited, frightened, angry, or trying to attract attention. In informal American English, a holler can additionally mean a complaint or grievance, as in the expression “have a holler about something.” As a noun, it can refer either to the loud vocal outburst itself or to that complaint. Holler is more conversational and emotionally charged than the more formal “shout,” while “yell” often suggests excitement, alarm, or anger. It is widely understood in British and American English, although particular senses are especially common in informal US usage.
To shout or cry loudly; also, to express a complaint or strong opinion forcefully.
"She hollered for help when she fell into the water."
Often emotional or attention-getting; “holler about” is an informal construction meaning to complain loudly about something.
A loud shout or cry; informally, a complaint, grievance, or forceful demand.
"Let out a holler when the results were announced."
The complaint sense is especially associated with informal American English.
Plural is possible but less common than the singular, particularly when referring to individual shouts or informal complaints.
"The crowd answered with a series of hollers."
In informal American English, a holler can be not only a shout but also a strongly expressed complaint, as in “I have a holler about the noise.”
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does holler come from?
The word developed in English from a Middle English form associated with crying or shouting aloud. Its precise older source is uncertain, so it is best understood as a native English formation whose modern meanings developed through long-standing informal usage. The sense meaning “complaint” is a later, figurative extension of the word’s general sense of forceful vocal expression.
How holler is actually used
The verb is common in everyday speech and can sound forceful, excited, angry, or urgent depending on context. “Holler” is especially associated with informal American English, including regional uses in the United States. As a noun meaning a complaint, it is chiefly informal.
Easily confused with holler
A hollow is an empty space or cavity, while a holler is a loud shout or cry.