coo
KOO
/kuː/
To make a soft, murmuring sound characteristic of doves, or to speak in a loving, gentle manner.
Associated with affection, romance, or the gentle sounds made by babies and lovers.
The story behind the word. Emerging in the 17th century, 'coo' is an imitative word mimicking the soft, murmuring sound made by doves and pigeons. It naturally extended to describe the affectionate, soft sounds made by humans.
Word relationships
- murmur: Murmur is a general low, continuous sound, while coo specifically implies a soft, affectionate, and high-pitched gentle sound.
- screech: Screech is a loud, harsh, piercing cry, the opposite of a gentle coo.
Commonly confused with
- purr: Purr is a continuous vibrating sound of contentment, while coo is a soft, melodic vocal sound.
Word family
- cooing (noun): The sound of cooing or affectionate speech.
Collocations
- coo softly
- coo with delight
- bill and coo
Idioms & expressions
- bill and coo
Example sentences
- "The proud parents watched their newborn baby coo and smile in her crib after a long afternoon nap." Describing a happy baby in a crib.
Memory hook
Think of a dove cooing 'coo, coo' in a peaceful garden. Coo is the sound of love and doves.
When not to use
Do not use for secretive, angry, or grumbling speech.
Fun facts
- The idiom 'bill and coo' refers to lovers whispering affectionately, referencing how doves touch bills and make soft sounds.
Explore more words
endearment, affection, tenderness, adore, soothe, affectionate
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