cheerlead

[ cheer-leed ]

verb (used with object)

, cheer·led, cheer·lead·ing.

1. to act as cheerleader for.
2. to encourage by or as if by cheerleading.

verb (used without object)

, cheer·led, cheer·lead·ing.

1. to act as cheerleader.

Word History and Origins

Origin of cheerlead¹

By back formation from cheerleader or cheerleading

Example Sentences

Members of the Dallas Cowboys cheerleading team provided entertainment, while two figures dressed as Transformers - around 10ft tall – paced around the audience.

From BBC

Wednesday should not be an exercise in back slapping and cheerleading but instead a reality check and planning how to move forward.

From BBC

“It is really not because of our sporting skills. They like seeing a genuine performance, whether it is by our cheerleading ethnic singers or our players. Tourists love real and original things.”

From BBC

The Trump campaign claims that the former president would veto any national abortion ban, which is laughable given his past cheerleading for one.

From Los Angeles Times

“What’s Next” is a cheerleading text, a fun and breezy read that doesn’t delve into any cringe aspects or difficulties on set.

From Los Angeles Times