CHEER

Definition of CHEER

CHEER Noun and Verb

Cheer is both a noun and a verb, with meanings related to expressing or receiving positive emotions, encouragement, or happiness. As a noun, cheer refers to expressions of joy, approval, or encouragement, often manifested through applause, shouting, or other forms of positive vocal or physical expressions. As a verb, cheer refers to the act of expressing joy, support, or encouragement, whether by vocalizing, clapping, or offering positive remarks.

CHEER as a noun

As a noun, cheer refers to the loud, enthusiastic expressions of joy, support, or encouragement, often displayed in social settings or events. For example, fans at a sports game might cheer for their team, showing their support and excitement through clapping, shouting, or chanting. Cheer can also refer to a more general feeling of happiness or positivity in a group or individual. “The cheer from the crowd was deafening as the team scored the winning goal.”

Good Spirits or Optimism: In addition to being an expression of approval, cheer can also describe a general sense of happiness, optimism, or high spirits. For example, someone might be said to bring cheer into a room if their presence lifts the mood and makes others feel happier or more positive. It can also be used in a more figurative sense, such as in the phrase “cheer up,” meaning to encourage someone to feel better or more optimistic. “Her laughter and good nature brought cheer to everyone around her.”

CHEER as a verb

When used as a verb, cheer refers to the act of expressing joy, encouragement, or approval. This can be done through vocal expressions such as shouting, clapping, or cheering on someone, such as a sports team or a performer. It can also refer to actions intended to boost someone’s spirits or make them feel more positive. “The crowd cheered loudly for the athlete as they crossed the finish line.”

To Encourage or Lift Someone’s Spirits: In a broader sense, cheer as a verb can also mean to uplift or encourage someone emotionally, especially during difficult or challenging times. To cheer someone up means to help improve their mood or offer them encouragement, particularly when they are feeling down or discouraged. “After hearing the bad news, her friends tried to cheer her up by taking her out for ice cream.”

Cheer in Social and Competitive Contexts: In social or competitive environments, cheer often takes on the role of providing support, especially in group activities or team sports. Cheerleaders, for example, are often seen as leading the crowd in enthusiastic expressions of support for a team or individual. This can include chanting, clapping, or displaying various signs of encouragement. “The cheerleaders cheered the team on with their chants and routines.”

Cheer in the Context of Festivity: The term cheer is also commonly associated with festive or celebratory events. It conveys a sense of holiday spirit, joy, and good times. For example, at Christmas or New Year’s, people often exchange “cheer” as part of the celebration, wishing others happiness and goodwill. “The streets were filled with cheer as people gathered for the holiday parade.”

In conclusion, cheer as a noun and verb encompasses a wide range of expressions of happiness, encouragement, and positive support. Whether it’s the loud cheers from a crowd at a sports event, the general feeling of good spirits among a group of people, or the act of uplifting someone through positive words or actions, cheer plays an important role in both social interactions and emotional well-being. From cheering on teams to cheering up a friend, cheer serves as a powerful expression of joy, optimism, and support.

Examples of CHEER in a sentence

CHEER as a noun in a sentence

• The crowd erupted in cheer as the team scored the winning goal.
• Her speech was met with loud cheers and applause from the audience.
• They raised their glasses in a cheer to celebrate the occasion.
• The team’s victory was greeted with great cheer by the fans in the stands.
• A sense of cheer filled the room during the holiday party.
• The children’s cheer brightened everyone’s mood during the school event.
• His performance was so impressive that it was met with a standing cheer.
• The cheer of the crowd echoed through the stadium as the concert began.

CHEER as a verb in a sentence

• The crowd cheered loudly as the runner crossed the finish line.
• They cheered for their favorite team throughout the entire match.
• The fans cheered in excitement when the band took the stage.
• She cheered him on as he prepared for his big presentation.
• The children cheered when they saw the clown at the birthday party.
• Everyone cheered when the company announced a new product launch.
• He was cheering for his friend, who was performing in the school play.
• The coach cheered the team up with an inspiring speech before the game.

Origin of CHEER

The term cheer has an etymology that reflects its association with positive emotions, encouragement, and expressions of happiness or support.

Semantic Context: Cheer refers to an expression of joy, encouragement, or approval. It can be used as both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it denotes a shout of encouragement or a mood of happiness. As a verb, it means to shout or express joy and support, often in public settings such as sports events or performances.

• Etymological Roots: The word “cheer” comes from the Old French “chiere”, meaning “face” or “expression,” which originally referred to a person’s facial expression or appearance. Over time, the meaning of “cheer” expanded to include an expression of joy or good spirits. The word is related to the Latin “cara”, meaning “face,” and its development indicates how a person’s facial expression could communicate emotions like joy or approval. In English, “cheer” evolved to signify a general expression of happiness, support, or encouragement.
• Historical Development: The use of cheer as an expression of joy or support can be traced back to early English literature and social customs. In medieval England, “cheer” referred to a person’s demeanor, specifically how they presented themselves emotionally to others. The verb “to cheer” began to be used in the 16th century, denoting the act of encouraging or expressing approval, especially in a communal or public context, such as at tournaments, feasts, and celebrations. By the 19th century, cheering became closely associated with public events like sporting competitions, where fans would cheer for their teams, creating an atmosphere of support and excitement.
• Cultural and Scientific Influence: Cheer has held a significant role in cultural practices, particularly in communal settings where group energy and support are crucial. In sports, cheering has become an integral part of fan culture, and in many societies, cheering is seen as a way to bolster morale and foster unity. Psychologically, cheering has been found to have a positive impact, both on the person being cheered for and on those doing the cheering. It enhances social bonding, elevates mood, and creates a sense of belonging. In a broader sense, cheer also embodies the idea of emotional support, not only in celebratory contexts but also in times of challenge or hardship.
• Modern Usage: Today, cheer is commonly used to describe expressions of support, especially in the context of sports or group activities. Cheer can also refer to the general mood of an individual or group, such as when someone is described as having “good cheer” or “a cheerful disposition.” The verb “to cheer” is frequently used in relation to offering encouragement or showing enthusiasm, whether at a sports game, a performance, or even in personal interactions. In a more organized sense, cheerleading has become a formalized activity in sports and schools, where participants lead cheers to energize the crowd and support athletes.
• Current Usage: The term cheer remains widely used, especially in sports, entertainment, and social contexts. It denotes the act of showing support or appreciation through vocal expressions like clapping, shouting, or chanting. In addition to its use in cheering for athletes or performers, the word has also taken on a more figurative meaning. People may “cheer someone on” in personal endeavors, providing encouragement during difficult tasks or milestones.

The term cheer has evolved from its early meaning of facial expression to become a broader concept associated with joy, encouragement, and public expressions of support. Today, it continues to serve as an important part of group dynamics, fostering positive energy and community spirit in both social and professional settings.