coo: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Informal, Literary
Quick answer
What does “coo” mean?
to make the soft, low sound characteristic of doves or pigeons.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
to make the soft, low sound characteristic of doves or pigeons.
To speak in a soft, loving, or admiring voice; to murmur affectionately. Also used informally to express surprise or delight (e.g., 'Coo!').
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The exclamatory 'Coo!' (expressing surprise) is primarily British and dated. The verb sense is shared.
Connotations
In both, the verb can imply tenderness, but in British usage, there may be a slight old-fashioned or quaint nuance to the affectionate use.
Frequency
The verb is low-frequency in both varieties. The exclamation is rare in AmE.
Grammar
How to Use “coo” in a Sentence
SUBJ + cooSUBJ + coo + over + OBJ (e.g., She cooed over the baby.)SUBJ + coo + that-CLAUSE (direct speech, e.g., 'How lovely,' she cooed.)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “coo” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The turtle doves cooed gently in the garden.
- 'You're a clever girl,' she cooed to her newborn.
American English
- We could hear pigeons cooing on the fire escape.
- He cooed over the photos of his new puppy.
adjective
British English
- The nest was filled with cooing chicks.
American English
- The quiet afternoon was broken only by a cooing dove.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Rare, except in literary analysis or ornithology.
Everyday
Used for describing doves/pigeons or speaking softly to babies/pets.
Technical
Used in ornithology to describe a specific vocalization.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “coo”
- Spelling confusion with 'coup' or 'cool'.
- Overusing the exclamation 'Coo!' in modern contexts.
- Using 'coo' to describe loud bird sounds.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, while the primary meaning refers to the sound of doves and pigeons, it is commonly extended to describe a soft, loving tone of voice used by people, especially when talking to babies or expressing admiration.
No, it is dated and primarily British. It expresses mild surprise and is rarely used in contemporary American English or modern British speech.
'Coo' is more specific and onomatopoeic, often implying affection or a dove-like sound. 'Murmur' is a low, continuous, indistinct sound, often from a crowd or stream. 'Whisper' is intentional, very quiet speech meant not to be overheard.
Rarely. Its inherent connotations are soft and positive (affection, tenderness). It could be used ironically or sarcastically ('Oh, don't you coo at me after what you did!'), but this is a marked, non-literal usage.
to make the soft, low sound characteristic of doves or pigeons.
Coo is usually informal, literary in register.
Coo: in British English it is pronounced /kuː/, and in American English it is pronounced /kuː/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “bill and coo (to kiss and talk lovingly, like birds)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of the sound 'coo' in 'cOOl' – a cool, soft, soothing sound made by doves.
Conceptual Metaphor
AFFECTION IS SOFT SOUND / COMMUNICATION IS BIRD SONG.
Practice
Quiz
Which of these is a correct usage of 'coo'?