Shoo Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ซ
shoo
[สuห ]
Definition
to drive away
The word 'shoo' is commonly used as a verb to instruct or encourage someone or something to go away, especially in a gentle or dismissive manner. It is often accompanied by a gesture of the hand or an exclamation to reinforce the command. The term is frequently used in contexts involving animals, where a person might want to disperse a pet or an insect that is being a nuisance. 'Shoo' is usually associated with a sense of dismissal rather than aggression, making it a polite way to indicate that something should leave.
Synonyms
dismiss, drive away, scare off.
Examples of usage
- She shooed the cat off the counter.
- He tried to shoo the flies away from his food.
- The mother shooed her children inside as it began to rain.
Translations
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Origin of 'shoo'
The word 'shoo' traces its origins back to the early 19th century, derived from the English verb 'shoo' and its related expressions. It is thought to imitate the sound one might make to startle an animal or insect into leavingโa sound that often combines a gentle whisper with a brisk, hurried tone. The use of 'shoo' in English has been widely adopted and understood, especially in colloquial speech. The phonetic nature of the word makes it easy to pronounce and memorable, contributing to its popularity in everyday language. 'Shoo' is similar to other exclamatory sounds used across various cultures to indicate annoyance or the desire for something to move away. This usage underscores the universal human tendency to use sound as a means of communication in social interactions, especially in dealing with animals.