rhizoverbBeta
DictionarywhoopLoud emotional cry
noun / verb

whoop

WOOP/wuːp/

A loud, drawn-out cry or breathing sound.

The runner raises both arms and lets out a triumphant whoop.

A young South Asian runner throws both arms up with an open-mouthed cry of triumph at a finish ribbon.
Etymology
whoopMiddle Englishloud call, hooting cry

Middle English houp already meant a loud call or hooting cry. The word's partly sound-imitative origin fits an excited vocal burst rather than ordinary speech.

In context

Storytime Haven186:42
“Well flown, Margot! Good bird!” cried the King, clapping his hands to encourage the hawk, while the falconers broke into the shrill whoop peculiar to the sport.
Sir Nigel ⚔️🌟 | A Tale of Chivalry and Adventure | Arthur Conan Doyle

More examples

  • The fans whoop when their team scores.
  • She whooped with joy when she heard the news.
  • A high-pitched whoop follows each fit of coughing.

Forms

whoop · whoops · whooped · whooping

Similar words

cheer
An approving or encouraging cry, rather than any emotional cry.
shout
A loud vocal utterance that may consist of spoken words.
gasp
A sudden intake of breath, not necessarily prolonged or noisy.