booingly
|boo-ing-ly|
/buː/
(boo)
disapproval sound
Etymology
'boo' originates from imitative/onomatopoeic origin (echoic), specifically the vocalization 'boo', representing a sound made to express disapproval or to startle.
'boo' appeared as an interjection in Early Modern English (c. 16th century) used to express contempt or to frighten; later it developed into the verb 'to boo' (attested by the 18th century) meaning 'to shout "boo" at', and participial/adverbial forms like 'booing' and 'booingly' derived from that verb.
Initially used as an exclamation to startle or express contempt, it evolved into a verb meaning 'to express disapproval by shouting "boo"' and into related noun/adverb forms retaining the sense of vocal disapproval (while a separate slang sense 'boo' meaning 'sweetheart' developed later in the 20th century).
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a vocal expression of displeasure or contempt, typically 'boo'.
There were boos from the crowd when the decision was announced.
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Verb 1
to express strong disapproval of (someone or something) by making a 'boo' sound; to shout 'boo' at.
The audience booed the politician off the stage.
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Adjective 1
formed from the present participle 'booing'; describing something characterized by booing.
The booing crowd made their feelings clear.
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Adverb 1
in a manner of expressing disapproval by making a prolonged 'boo' sound; by booing.
The crowd booingly interrupted the performance.
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Idioms
Last updated: 2025/12/23 09:17