ooh

UK: uː | US: uː

Definition

  1. excl. an exclamation expressing surprise, excitement, or admiration

  2. v.i. to exclaim in surprise, excitement, or admiration

Structure

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Etymology

"Ooh" is an onomatopoeic interjection, imitating the natural sound humans make when reacting to something surprising, delightful, or impressive. It emerged in English during the late 19th to early 20th century as a vocalization of awe or pleasure, often elongated ("oooh") for emphasis. Unlike structured compound words, it belongs to a category of expressive sounds (like "ah" or "wow") that transcend linguistic boundaries.

Examples

  1. "Ooh! That fireworks display was breathtaking!"

  2. She couldn’t help but ooh at the adorable puppy.

  3. "Ooh, I love your new dress!" he exclaimed.

  4. The audience let out a collective ooh during the magic trick.

  5. Ooh, that’s a clever idea!