boo

¹

[ boo ]

interjection

1. (used to express contempt or disapprobation or to startle or frighten.)

noun

, plural boos.

1. an exclamation of contempt or disapproval:

   a loud boo from the bleachers.

verb (used without object)

, booed, boo·ing.

1. to cry boo in derision.

verb (used with object)

, booed, boo·ing.

1. to show disapproval of by booing.

boo

²

[ boo, boh ]

noun

1. Slang. marijuana.

boo

³

[ boo ]

noun

, Slang.

1. one's boyfriend or girlfriend.

boo

/ buː /

interjection

1. an exclamation uttered to startle or surprise someone, esp a child
2. a shout uttered to express disgust, dissatisfaction, or contempt, esp at a theatrical production, political meeting, etc
3. would not say boo to a goose
   is extremely timid or diffident

verb

1. to shout "boo" at (someone or something), esp as an expression of disgust, dissatisfaction, or disapproval

   to boo the actors

Word History and Origins

Origin of boo¹

First recorded in 1630–40; expressive formation

Origin of boo²

First recorded in 1955–60; of uncertain origin

Origin of boo³

1985–90; of uncertain origin; possibly an alteration of French beau “boyfriend, admirer”

Example Sentences

Koch adds: "They'd look like they were mis-hits and crowds would boo, but we knew what we were executing."

From BBC

Cutting back to Stewart, we see him sarcastically react with, “Yes, yes, of course, terrible. Boo!” before breaking into giggles.

From Salon

“Inflation’s gotten so bad that the jail guys want more money,” Tejada said, as Boo Boo laughed.

From Los Angeles Times

Five cameras set up by Boo Boo captured their every reaction.

From Los Angeles Times

He had thought Boo Boo was “crazy” for supporting Trump in 2016 — but now they are kindred spirits.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• heckle
• hiss
• holler
• hoot
• jeer