Hurray: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• 'Hurray' likely comes from the Middle English word 'hurra,' which was used as an exclamation of joy.
• The word has similarities to terms in other languages, like 'hura' in Polish and 'hurray' in German, both expressing excitement.
• It has been used in English since the 17th century, becoming a common cheer at celebrations and victories.

Cultural Significance

• In sports, fans often shout 'hurray' to cheer for their team, showing unity and support.
• Parades and festivals frequently feature the word, symbolizing joy and community spirit.
• It's often paired with festive cheers like 'three cheers for...' to amplify the sentiments of celebration.

Psychology

• Using exclamations like 'hurray' can boost mood and create a sense of belonging among groups.
• The vocalization of excitement helps to physically express feelings, thus enhancing emotional experiences.
• People tend to feel more connected to each other when sharing moments where they collectively shout 'hurray' during celebrations.

Literature

• Writers often use 'hurray' in stories to convey characters’ excitement, adding emotion to their narratives.
• It can serve as a turning point in tales, marking moments of triumph over obstacles in various genres.
• The word appears in many children’s books, accentuating joyous moments that resonate with young readers.

Pop Culture

• Many songs and movies include 'hurray' in their lyrics or dialogues to evoke feelings of happiness and celebration.
• Animated shows for children often have characters shout 'hurray' during happy moments, creating memorable scenes.
• It's a common hashtag on social media during celebrations, inviting others to join in the joy.

At position #41,257, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.

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• 41254 unrestrictive
• 41255 tritely
• 41256 swooshed
• 41257 hurray
• 41258 persnickety
• 41259 magnetise
• 41260 corgi
• ...