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Cheer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cheer

[tʃɪər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

to support

To give comfort, help, or encouragement to someone. To shout or cheer loudly in support of someone or something. To make someone feel happier or more positive.

Synonyms

applaud, encourage, root for, support.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cheer

Use when showing excitement or happiness for someone, usually in a loud and enthusiastic way.

  • The crowd began to cheer as the athletes entered the stadium
  • The fans were cheering loudly for their team
encourage

Use when offering support or motivation to someone, often to instill confidence or stimulate action.

  • Her teacher encouraged her to apply for the scholarship
  • Parents should always encourage their children to pursue their dreams
applaud

Use when showing appreciation or respect, often by clapping hands. Typically used in more formal settings.

  • After the performance, the audience stood up to applaud the musicians
  • We should applaud her for her hard work and dedication
support

Use when providing assistance, backing, or advocacy for someone or something in a general sense.

  • She supports various charitable organizations
  • It’s important to support your friends in difficult times
root for

Use when expressing support for someone or something, often in a sports or competitive context.

  • I'm going to root for my favorite team during the championship game
  • The whole school was rooting for their debate team

Examples of usage

  • He cheered her up when she was feeling down.
  • The crowd cheered as the team scored a goal.
  • She was cheered by the news of her promotion.
Context #2 | Noun

positive emotion

A shout or cry of joy, support, or encouragement. A feeling of happiness or positivity.

Synonyms

applause, happiness, joy, support.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cheer

Used in situations where people are shouting or making loud noises to show excitement or encouragement. It can be both for happy occasions and for showing support during a performance or game.

  • The crowd began to cheer loudly when their team scored a goal.
  • The children cheered as the fireworks lit up the sky.
applause

Typically used when people are clapping their hands to show approval, enjoyment, or appreciation, often after a performance, speech, or presentation.

  • The audience gave a loud applause after the singer finished her song.
  • The speaker received applause for his inspiring talk.
joy

Describes a feeling of great happiness and pleasure, often more intense and deeper than simple happiness. It is used in moments of special delight or bliss.

  • The birth of her child brought immense joy to the family.
  • He jumped in joy when he found out he got the job.
happiness

Refers to a state of being happy, an emotional feeling of well-being or joy. It is used in general descriptions of positive emotions.

  • She felt a deep sense of happiness when she saw her family after a long trip.
  • Happiness filled the room as they celebrated the good news.
support

Used to describe the act of helping or encouraging someone, often in tough situations or to show approval of someone's actions or decisions.

  • She received a lot of support from her friends during a difficult time.
  • The team felt the support of their fans throughout the championship.

Examples of usage

  • The cheers of the crowd filled the stadium.
  • She felt a rush of cheer when she heard the good news.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Cheering and expressing joy can release endorphins, the body's natural 'feel-good' chemicals.
  • Studies show that positive emotions like cheer can improve overall health and strengthen the immune system.

Sport

  • Cheerleading began in the late 19th century, originally featuring mostly male participants leading crowds in cheers.
  • Modern cheerleading combines dance, gymnastics, and stunts, evolving into a competitive sport with teams across the world.

Pop Culture

  • The phrase 'Cheers!' is a common toast used when raising glasses to celebrate, symbolizing good cheer and camaraderie.
  • Cheer-related songs, like 'Don't Worry, Be Happy', highlight the importance of maintaining a cheerful demeanor in tough times.

Festivals

  • Many cultures have festivals that involve cheering and joyful celebrations, like New Year's Eve where people cheer to welcome the new year.
  • In America, the Fourth of July celebrations often include cheering as people celebrate with fireworks and parades.

Origin of 'cheer'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'cheer' comes from the Old French word 'chiere', meaning 'face, appearance' – indicating how we show happiness.
  • It was first used in English around the 14th century, referring to a mood or state of being happy or joyful.

The word 'cheer' originated from the Middle English 'cheren', which meant to make happy or cheerful. Over time, the word evolved to encompass the ideas of joy, support, and encouragement. The concept of cheering for someone or something has been present in various cultures throughout history, often associated with celebrations, victories, or moments of positivity. Today, 'cheer' is commonly used to express support, happiness, and encouragement in both personal and collective contexts.

See also: cheerful, cheerfully, cheerfulness, cheering, cheers.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,182 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.