Hooray

Hooray is an interjection used to express happiness, approval, or triumph. It functions as a cheer in celebrations, after achieving a goal, or in response to good news. The word has several spellings, including hooray, hurray, hurrah, and hurra, with regional and historical preferences influencing which form is common in a given context.

Etymology and history: The exact origin of hooray is uncertain, but related celebratory cries appear across Germanic and Romance language traditions. English-language attestations date from the 18th or 19th century. Cognate forms include Dutch hoera, German hurra, and French hourra, all serving a similar function as expressions of encouragement or victory. The spelling with "oo" or "ou" variations reflect regional preferences rather than distinct meanings.

Usage and nuance: In modern English, hooray is informal and best suited to light-hearted or communal settings, such as classrooms, sports events, or social gatherings. It is frequently used in the phrase "Hip hip, hooray!" as a traditional cheer. Context, audience, and tone influence spelling choices; "hooray" tends to be American, while "hurrah" or "hurray" may carry a more old-fashioned or British flavor.

See also: Hip hip hooray.