Word
whoops
US/ˈhwups/
UK/wˈuːps/
Definitions
01acknowledging a mistake
interj. you say this when you make a small mistake, drop something, or have a minor accident.
interj. an exclamation used to acknowledge a minor slip, mistake, or clumsy act.
“Whoops, I didn't mean to spill my coffee on your desk.”
“Whoops, I seem to have sent that confidential email to the entire department by mistake.”
Informal
Usage
Typically used as a standalone exclamation immediately following a minor accident.
02making a loud cry
v. to make a loud, excited shout or cry.
v. the third-person singular present form of 'whoop', meaning to utter a loud cry of excitement or joy.
“Every time the team scores, he whoops with joy.”
“The crowd whoops and cheers as the performer takes the stage for the final encore.”
Usage
The third-person singular form of the verb 'whoop'.
Antonyms
04to vomit
v. to be sick or throw up.
v. to eject the contents of the stomach through the mouth.
“He had too much to drink and spent the night whoopsing.”
“After the rough boat ride, several passengers were whoopsing over the side of the deck.”
Slang · Informal
Teaching tip
This sense is very informal and potentially gross; learners should use 'be sick' or 'vomit' in most situations.
Etymology
Scan code
englishreference.com/q/whoops