What does hurrah mean?
A hurrah is a short, emphatic expression of delight, triumph, or approval. It is often shouted by a group, as when spectators celebrate a goal, a victory, or the completion of a difficult task, though it can also be used by one person in conversation, writing, or theatrical dialogue. “A collective hurrah” and “give a hurrah” are established patterns, while “let out a hurrah” describes a burst of public cheering. The interjection has a buoyant, celebratory tone and is often more expressive than a neutral statement of approval. It is particularly associated with British English and formal or festive contexts, although it remains understood and used in American English. The variant spelling “hurray” is equally standard and can be encountered in both varieties of English.
interjectionAn exclamation of joy, triumph, or enthusiastic approval.
- An expression of delight, triumph, or enthusiastic approval, often used in a group or as a cheer.
"A collective hurrah greeted the team's victory."
"The crowd let out a thunderous hurrah when the final whistle blew."
"“Hurrah!” shouted the children as the first snow covered the hills."
A single syllable has carried the sound of public celebration from triumphant crowds to cheering stadiums.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does hurrah come from?
The word is recorded in English from the 18th century, but its precise origin is uncertain. It became established as a shout of joy or triumph, and the alternative form “hurray” developed as a commonly used spelling variant.
How hurrah is actually used
The word is usually enthusiastic and informal or theatrical. It is more common in British English than in American English, where “hooray” is often preferred in everyday speech.
Easily confused with hurrah
“Hurrah” and “hurray” are variant spellings of the same interjection, with no difference in meaning or usage.