What does woohoo mean?
Woohoo is an informal interjection used to express intense delight, excitement, or enthusiastic approval. Its extended, emphatic sound makes it particularly effective when announcing good news, celebrating an achievement, or joining a crowd in cheering. A speaker might use it after receiving favorable news, while an audience may produce a collective woohoo when a performer or announcement delights them. Although it can convey approval or satisfaction, its main emotional force is exuberance rather than ordinary happiness. The word is understood in both British and American English and is especially natural in speech, though it also appears informally in captions and online posts. Woohoo is not normally used in formal contexts, where “hooray,” “yay,” or “well done” may be more appropriate. Its memorable two-syllable rhythm helps distinguish it from the restrained expressions used in many other situations.
interjectionAn informal exclamation expressing delight, excitement, or enthusiastic approval.
- An informal exclamation used to express delight, excitement, or enthusiastic approval.
"A collective woohoo greeted the announcement that the show had been extended."
"The audience erupted in a woohoo when the guest singer appeared."
"“We’ve secured the venue,” she said, raising both fists in a woohoo."
Woohoo is the rare interjection that announces good news with two emphatic syllables.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of woohoo
The exact origin of woohoo is uncertain, and it has no clearly established cognate family. It is best understood as an English expressive interjection formed through the playful combination of sounds associated with a wooing call and a hoot of excitement.
How woohoo is actually used
Woohoo is informal and strongly enthusiastic. It is especially common in spoken conversation, social media, and descriptions of people cheering or celebrating; it is generally unsuitable for formal writing.