Hullabaloo: meaning, definitions and examples

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hullabaloo

[ˌhʌl.əˈbuː.luː ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

loud noise

A hullabaloo is a lot of noise and excitement, confusion, or argument.

Synonyms

clamor, commotion, turmoil, uproar.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
hullabaloo	used to describe a loud noise or a lot of activity and excitement, often caused by an argument or a big event. Often has a slightly playful or informal tone. There was a big hullabaloo in the office when the news broke.
uproar	used to describe a state of great noise, excitement, or angry protest. Can be used both formally and informally, often in the context of strong public reaction. The government's decision caused an uproar among the citizens.
commotion	describes a noisy and chaotic situation, usually caused by a lot of people or movement. Can be used in both formal and informal settings. What’s all the commotion in the hallway about?
clamor	refers to a loud, sustained noise, often from a group of people shouting or talking loudly. Suitable for formal writing. The clamor of protesters could be heard from the other side of the city.
turmoil	indicates a state of great disturbance, confusion, or uncertainty. Often used to describe emotional or social unrest. The country was in turmoil after the unexpected resignation of the president.

Examples of usage

There was a hullabaloo outside the building as the protesters gathered.
The children's birthday party was full of hullabaloo and laughter.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

informal

A hullabaloo can also refer to a fuss or commotion about something trivial.

Synonyms

ado, fuss, hoo-ha, kerfuffle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
hullabaloo	Used to describe loud noises or a lot of fuss made by people, especially in a way that shows excitement or agitation. Often implies a chaotic or noisy disturbance. There was a lot of hullabaloo outside the concert hall as the fans waited for the band. The hullabaloo over the new policy changes kept the office buzzing for hours.
fuss	Used to describe unnecessary or excessive concern or attention given to something. Can imply irritation or annoyance. She always makes a fuss about the smallest things. There was a big fuss when the caterer didn't show up on time.
kerfuffle	Used to describe a commotion or fuss caused by conflicting views. Often implies a small argument or disagreement. The new policy caused quite a kerfuffle among the staff. There was a bit of a kerfuffle over who should sit where.
ado	Often used in the phrase 'without further ado' to indicate moving on to the main point without delay. Generally signifies unnecessary fuss or delay. Without further ado, let's start the meeting. There was much ado about nothing when they discovered it was just a false alarm.
hoo-ha	Informal term used to describe a situation when people become very excited or angry about something insignificant or minor. There was a big hoo-ha over the new dress code at the office. The neighbors created a hoo-ha over the loud music last night.

Examples of usage

There was a hullabaloo at the office when the coffee machine broke down.
The whole neighborhood was in a hullabaloo over the missing cat.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word likely originated in the late 19th century, possibly combining the sounds of chaos and confusion.
Some believe it comes from the Scottish phrase 'hullo, baloo', which was a call to make noise or a cry of surprise.
Another theory suggests it stems from the French word 'halabaloo', meaning a noisy argument or uproar.

Pop Culture

The term is often used in children’s books and cartoons to describe crazy situations filled with laughter and silliness.
Songs and films sometimes include the word to evoke a sense of chaos or energetic fun.
The phrase has been used in political contexts to express disagreement or uproar over certain issues.

History

The term became popular in the United States around the 1920s, reflecting a growing culture of entertainment and diversion.
It has been used in various protests and movements to describe the loud outcry of the people.
Hullabaloo also featured in local newspapers to denote lively community events or particularly noisy activities.

Literature

Writers like J.D. Salinger used 'hullabaloo' to set a tone of chaos in their narratives, emphasizing dissonance in society.
In children’s literature, it paints vivid pictures of playful scenarios, making the stories engaging for young readers.
Poets have also embraced the term to create a rhythm and noise in their works, illustrating the bustling nature of life.

Psychology

Loud environments and hullabaloo can impact mood, often leading to excitement or anxiety depending on the context.
Studies show that excessive noise can be distracting, but a lively atmosphere can enhance social interactions and bonding.
The human brain is wired to respond to chaos and noise, which can stimulate creativity and spontaneous reactions.

Translations

Translations of the word "hullabaloo" in other languages:

🇵🇹 confusão

🇮🇳 शोरगुल

🇩🇪 Tumult

🇮🇩 keributan

🇺🇦 галас

🇵🇱 zamieszanie

🇯🇵 騒ぎ

🇫🇷 chahut

🇪🇸 alboroto

🇹🇷 gürültü

🇰🇷 소란

🇸🇦 ضجيج

🇨🇿 rozruch

🇸🇰 rozruch

🇨🇳 喧闹

🇸🇮 hrup

🇮🇸 læti

🇰🇿 шу

🇬🇪 ხმაური

🇦🇿 hay-küy

🇲🇽 alboroto

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,290, 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.

...
35287 nacre
35288 maidenhood
35289 beefed
35290 hullabaloo
35291 menstruate
35292 veritably
35293 gloomier
...