cheer
- 01 B1 Intermediate
n.a loud shout of joy or support, often at a sports event.
n.a vocal expression of approval, joy, or encouragement, typically delivered in a group setting.
Simple“A loud cheer went up from the crowd when the striker scored the winning goal.”
In context“The stadium erupted in a deafening cheer as the underdog team finally broke the deadlock in the closing minutes of the match.”
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.a feeling of happiness or a positive mood.
n.a state of mind characterised by happiness, optimism, or high spirits.
Simple“The bright decorations brought a bit of holiday cheer to the office.”
In context“Despite the cold weather, the festive market was filled with warmth and Christmas cheer as families gathered around the stalls.”
- 03 B1 Intermediate
v.to shout loudly to show you support a person or a team.
v.to express approval or encouragement through vocal shouts or applause.
Simple“We stood by the side of the road to cheer for the marathon runners.”
In context“The fans continued to cheer their team on even after it became clear that a comeback was statistically impossible.”
- 04 B1 Intermediate
v.to make someone feel happier or more hopeful, especially when they are sad.
v.to gladden or comfort someone; frequently used as a phrasal verb with 'up'.
Simple“I bought some flowers to cheer her up after she had a difficult day at work.”
In context“The news of the recovery served to cheer the entire family, who had been waiting anxiously for an update from the hospital.”
UsageOften used as the phrasal verb 'cheer up'.
- 05 C2 Proficiency
n.good food and drink served during a celebration.
n.provisions, especially food and drink, prepared for a festive or social occasion.
Simple“The table was loaded with traditional holiday cheer for all the guests.”
In context“The host spared no expense, providing an abundance of festive cheer that kept the conversation flowing well into the night.”
Synonyms
“Each touch of the ball was greeted by a mixture of boos and cheers, while some fans also celebrated when Fernandez was fouled.”
“Candidates on stage at the Clacton Leisure Centre, where the count was held, were seen cheering for each other as the results were announced, with many receiving fewer than 100 votes.”
From Middle English chere, from Anglo-Norman chere, from Old French chiere (“head, face; appearance; reception, hospitality; meal, dinner, food”) (Modern French chère), from Late Latin cara (“head”).
Clipping of cheerleading.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.