ENGLISH
REFERENCE

ballyhoo

n.
US //ˈbæɫiˈhu// UK //bˌælɪhˈuː// bal·ly·hoo Informal
Synonyms
Etymology 1

A shortening of the Irish village Ballyhooly, known for its rowdiness.

Etymology 2

From Spanish balajú.

Etymology 3

Possibly from Spanish balahú (“schooner”).

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