I. ˈhüp, ˈhu̇p, ˈhwüp, ˈhwu̇p, ˈwüp, ˈwu̇p verb
Etymology: Middle English whopen, houpen, from Anglo-French huper, of imitative origin
Date: 14th century
intransitive verb
1. : to utter a whoop in expression of eagerness, enthusiasm, or enjoyment : shout
2. : to utter the cry of an owl : hoot
3. : to make the characteristic whoop of whooping cough
4.
a. : to go or pass with a loud noise
b. : to be rushed through by acclamation or with noisy support
the bill whoop ed through both houses
transitive verb
1.
a. : to utter or express with a whoop
b. : to urge, drive, or cheer on with a whoop
2. : to agitate in behalf of
3. : raise , boost
whoop up the price
•
- whoop it up
II. noun
Date: 14th century
1.
a. : a loud yell expressive of eagerness, exuberance, or jubilation — often used interjectionally
b. : a shout of hunters or of men in battle or pursuit
2. : the cry of an owl : hoot
3. : the crowing intake of breath following a paroxysm in whooping cough
4. : a minimum amount or degree : the least bit
not worth a whoop