booh

Definition

  1. Interjection:

    • An exclamation of disapproval or contempt: "booh" is used to express scorn, derision, or objection, often directed at a speaker, performer, or event.
    • A sound to startle or frighten: Similar to "boo," it can be used as a sudden exclamation to surprise or scare someone, often playfully.

  2. Verb:

    • To express disapproval by shouting "booh": To make a loud, derisive sound as a form of protest or mockery.
    • To drive away or scare off: To use the exclamation "booh" to force someone or something to leave a place.
Usage Examples

  • Interjection:

    • When the politician made an unpopular statement, the crowd shouted "booh!" in unison. (An expression of collective disapproval.)
    • He jumped out from behind the door and yelled "booh!" to startle his little sister. (A playful sound meant to frighten.)

  • Verb:

    • The audience boohed the comedian after his offensive joke. (They expressed disapproval by shouting "booh.")
    • The farmer tried to booh the stray dog out of the garden. (He used the exclamation to drive the dog away.)
Advanced Usage

  • "to booh someone off the stage": to force a performer to leave by shouting "booh" in disapproval.

    • The singer was boohed off the stage after forgetting the lyrics. (The audience's derisive shouts caused her to exit.)

  • "a chorus of boohs": a collective sound of disapproval from a group.

    • A chorus of boohs greeted the referee's decision. (Many people expressed their objection at once.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Boo (interjection/verb): The more common spelling and pronunciation of "booh." Both forms function identically.

    • The crowd booed the umpire. (They expressed disapproval.)

  • Booh-bird (n, informal): a person who habitually expresses disapproval or is critical.

    • He's a booh-bird at every town hall meeting. (He always complains or shouts disapproval.)
Synonyms
  • Hiss: to make a sharp, sibilant sound as a sign of disapproval (often used in theatres).
  • Jeer: to make rude and mocking remarks.
  • Catcall: a loud, whistling sound or comment made to express disapproval.
Phrasal Verbs

  • Booh off: to cause someone to leave a performance or event by shouting "booh."

    • The actor was boohed off the stage after his terrible performance. (The audience's derision forced him to exit.)

  • Booh out: to drive someone or something away using the exclamation.

    • They boohed the intruder out of the building. (They shouted "booh" to expel him.)
Related Idioms

  • Not care a booh: to be completely indifferent or unconcerned.

    • He doesn't care a booh about the criticism. (He is utterly unaffected by the disapproval.)

  • Booh to a goose: a phrase meaning something insignificant or ineffective.

    • His threats were just a booh to a goose. (His warnings had no real impact.)