cheer

cheer · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A shout of encouragement, praise, or joy.

  2. 2.

    To shout in encouragement or approval.

  3. 3.

    Cheerfulness or optimism.

  4. 4.

    To make someone feel happier or more optimistic.

Forms

plural: cheers

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    cheer up — to become or make happier
  • •
    cheer on — to encourage with shouts
  • •
    three cheers — a series of hurrahs
  • •
    good cheer — happiness and optimism
  • •
    Bronx cheer — a raspberry (mocking sound)

Related words

Antonyms: boo, jeer, sadness
See also: applause, cheerful, cheers, encourage
Synonyms: applause, encouragement, happiness, joy

Etymology

From Old French chiere ("face, expression"), from Late Latin cara ("face"), from Greek kara ("head"). The meaning shifted from "face/expression" to "mood/disposition" to "good spirits" and finally to "expressions of approval."