# roo

/ɹˈuː/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

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

## Definition

a short, casual name for a kangaroo. People in Australia often use this word when they are talking about the animal in a friendly way.

For teachers: a colloquial abbreviation for a kangaroo. Primarily used in Australian English; informal in register.

## Examples

- We saw a wild roo hopping across the field.
- While driving through the outback at dusk, you have to be careful not to hit a roo on the road.
- The local wildlife sanctuary specializes in the rehabilitation of orphaned roos, providing them with a safe environment until they are mature enough for release into the bush.

## Usage notes

- Informal abbreviation — common in spoken Australian English but rarely used in formal scientific writing.

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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.