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Brouhaha Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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brouhaha

[ˈbruːhɑːhɑː ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

public dispute

A brouhaha refers to a noisy and overexcited reaction or response to something, often involving public uproar or controversy. It can be used to describe a situation where there is much ado about something that might not warrant such intensity. Typically, a brouhaha arises from misunderstandings, exaggerated claims, or differing opinions leading to a heated discussion or dispute. In essence, it's a term for melodrama or fuss surrounding an event or occurrence.

Synonyms

commotion, fuss, hubbub, stir, uproar.

Examples of usage

  • The political debate turned into a brouhaha.
  • There was a huge brouhaha over the new policy changes.
  • Her comments at the meeting caused a real brouhaha.
  • The celebrity's tweet created a social media brouhaha.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • Brouhaha has often been used in movies and music to describe chaotic scenes or exaggerated reactions.
  • Comedians frequently refer to a 'brouhaha' to describe humorous overreactions to trivial events in their routines.
  • The word appears in various titles and lyrics, reflecting cultural moments of upheaval or celebration.

Psychology

  • People often create a 'brouhaha' when emotions are heightened, demonstrating how excitement can amplify reactions.
  • Studies show that group dynamics can lead to 'brouhaha', where the collective excitement influences individual responses.
  • The phenomenon is related to social behavior wherein minor events escalate into major public spectacles.

Literature

  • The word appears in classic novels as authors describe chaotic events, typically adding humor or drama.
  • Many poets have used 'brouhaha' to capture the essence of tumultuous times, enhancing the emotional landscape of their work.
  • In contemporary writing, it conveys absurdity in situations, reflecting on serious topics with a light-hearted approach.

Media

  • Brouhaha is often used in news headlines to describe public reactions to scandals or controversies.
  • Social media is a breeding ground for 'brouhaha', as discussions can spiral into large debates over small issues.
  • Television shows sometimes exaggerate situations as 'brouhaha', creating comedic or dramatic effects.

Origin of 'brouhaha'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'brouhaha' comes from a French phrase that imitated the sound of a noisy commotion.
  • The term was likely popularized in the late 19th century in America, blending French with English culture.
  • It might have roots in Hebrew, where 'brouhaha' means 'to raise a fuss or clamour'.

The word 'brouhaha' has an interesting etymology that traces back to the 19th century. It is believed to have originated from the French term 'brouhaha', which was used to describe an uproar or tumult, possibly derived from a Hebrew phrase 'barukh habba' meaning 'blessed is he who comes'. The adoption of 'brouhaha' into English likely took place in the late 1800s, initially appearing in literary works and gradually becoming common vernacular. The term often implies a level of absurdity or frivolity, as it denotes a fuss that may seem disproportionate to the issue at hand. Over the years, 'brouhaha' has maintained its colorful and dramatic connotation, often used in media and everyday conversation to describe situations of public commotion, argumentation, or sensationalized discussion.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,108, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.