verb

root

To support or cheer for someone.

We always root for our local team on game night.

Etymology

Probably related to an older noisy-calling verb. The cheering word is not established as a derivative of a plant's root.

More examples

  • I'm rooting for you to get that promotion.
  • She roots for the underdog in every contest.
  • The whole family rooted for him during the race.

Forms

root · roots · rooted · rooting

Similar words

cheer
Emphasizes expressing encouragement aloud, often with shouts or applause.
support
Covers practical help or approval, not just enthusiastic encouragement.