# booing

/ˈbuɪŋ/ (US) · /bˈuːɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/booing
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

the loud sound of a crowd shouting 'boo' to show they do not like a performance or a person. It is the opposite of cheering.

For teachers: the collective vocal expression of disapproval or contempt from an audience, typically through the sustained utterance of the word 'boo'.

## Examples

- The crowd's booing grew louder as the player left the field.
- Despite the actor's best efforts, the booing from the gallery made it impossible to hear the final lines of the play.
- The politician's speech was met with such persistent booing that the moderator was forced to intervene and remind the audience of the rules of civil debate.

## Usage notes

- Often functions as a gerund noun; frequently paired with verbs like 'hear' or 'ignore'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.