Meaning of the word boo in English

What does boo mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

boo

US /buː/
UK /buː/

Exclamation

1.

used to startle or frighten someone suddenly

Example:
He jumped out from behind the door and shouted, "Boo!"
The children tried to scare their parents by yelling "Boo!"
2.

used to express disapproval or contempt, especially at a performance or public event

Example:
The crowd started to boo the referee's decision.
The comedian was met with a chorus of boos after his offensive joke.

Verb

to show disapproval of (a speaker, performer, etc.) by shouting "boo" or similar sounds

Example:
The audience began to boo the bad acting.
Don't boo him, he's doing his best.

Noun

a sound made to express disapproval or to startle someone

Example:
The crowd gave a collective boo when the decision was announced.
He let out a loud boo to scare his sister.