Some folks use the word holler (/ˈhɒlə/ /ˈhɒl.ə/) in lieu of the word hollow, but what exactly does it mean? Where did this interesting term come from? We’ll tell you.

In this article, we’re exploring the word holler to uncover its definition, origin, usage, and more. So, if you’ve ever been curious about holler and its meaning — keep reading. Here’s our complete guide on the word holler.

What Is the Definition of Holler?

As per Lexico, holler is an informal verb for those times when you need to shout or call out to others. Holler can also be used as a noun in reference to a loud cry that one would use to express surprise or pain, to call for help, or to attract attention to oneself.

That being said, holler does have a few other definitions, albeit slightly less used than the first:

Holler can alternatively be defined as a small valley, depression, or dip in the land found chiefly between mountains; a colloquial form of the word hollow.

Holler is also a type of work song that was originally sung by black slaves in the United States. This variation of singing would later play a part in the development of the blues.

Holler can also be used as a noun to reference a very loud manner of speaking (think the sound of an animal).

What Is the Etymology of Holler?

Believe it or not, our word of the day dates all the way back to the 17th century. In short, holler is a colloquial form of hollo (meaning to shout) — which itself is a variation of hello.

Additionally, around 1936, holler was also noted as a style of singing, which originated out of the Appalachian region of the Southern U.S.

What Are the Synonyms and Antonyms of Holler?

When looking to understand the meaning of a new word, it can be especially helpful to review its synonyms and antonyms. That said, what are synonyms and antonyms?

Simply put, synonyms are terms with exact or similar meanings to another word, while antonyms are words that convey opposite meanings.

What Are Synonyms of Holler?

Halloo
Cry out
Whoop
Hoot
Call at the top of one’s voice
Bellyache
Gripe
Make a sign to
Sing out
Yell
Beck and call
Yammer
Clamor
Sound off
Flag down
Hail
Set free
Whistle down
Yoo-hoo
Call out to
Razz
Go ape
Let loose
Boo
Jeer
Scoff at
Howl down
Blow raspberries
Call out
Squall
Gesture to stop
Bellow
Squawk
Vociferation
Yowl
Set loose
Caterwaul
Yawp
Loud cry
Yaup
Grouse

What Are Antonyms of Holler?

Whisper
Praise
Get a thrill out of
Take pleasure in
Big up
Crow
Quiet
Low voice
Soft voice
Hushed tone
Sigh
Speaky highly of
Pay tribune to
Approve
Speak in hushed tones
Be quiet
Speak softly
Sing the praises of
Let go
Surrender
Go along
Speak clearly
Be happy
Talk to oneself
Grunt
Speak in muted tones
Mutter
Say to oneself
Speak indistinctly
Susurrate
Mumble
Say under one’s breath
Speak sotto voce

How Can You Use Holler in a Sentence?

Holler can be defined as a loud shout or cry, but how is it used in a sentence? Here are some example sentences for you to review:

“Did you know that the word holler is a variant of holla?”

“I think I just heard someone holler my name across the courtyard.”

“When you feel like you’ve had enough, give me a holler.”

“I will give you a holler as soon as I get home!”

“Just holler if you need anything, okay?”

“Look, I really don’t appreciate you hollering at me.”

“The toddler let out a loud holler as he fell off the swing.”

“I could hear my best friend holler and cheer as I crossed the finish line.”

“He was hollering so loud that I was honestly shocked upon discovering that the baby was still fast asleep.”

“It’s hard for Suzie go outside without getting cat-called or hollered at because of her insane beauty.”

What Are Translations of Holler?

By now, you should have a pretty good understanding of our word of the day — but what if you’re trying to say “holler” in a different language; would you know how? Not to worry!

Here are some common translations for you to review:

Translations of holler provided by Nice Translator.

American English — holler
Brazilian Portuguese — berrar
Chinese — 喊叫
Czech — křičet
Croatian — vikanje
Norwegian — rop
Greek — Φωνάζω
Dutch — schreeuwen
Russian — вскрик
Arabic — صاح
Italian — urlare
Japanese — 叫ぶ
Korean — 고함지르다
European Portuguese — berrar
Spanish — gritar
Thai — ตะโกน
British English — holler
Bulgarian — Крещя
European Spanish — gritar
French — brailler
German — brüllen
Finnish — huutaa
Ukrainian — Холлер
Swedish — Ropa

Summary

To sum it up, holler is an intransitive verb meaning to give a person a loud cry or a loud shout. However, as we previously discussed, our word of the day is also an alternative form of hollow— a small valley between mountains. That said, it should be noted that this use of the term holler is primarily a dialect in Southern US, Appalachia.

Interested in learning the meaning behind more complex terms? The Word Counter has your back. Head on over to our website where you’ll discover a plethora of informative blogs, countless grammar tips, useful tools, and more.

Whether you’re looking to understand a new slang word or on a mission to improve your writing skills, you can always count on us!

Sources:

HOLLER English Definition and Meaning | Lexico.com

Holler Definition & Meaning | Dictionary.com

Translations of Holler | Nice Translator

Kevin Miller is a growth marketer with an extensive background in Search Engine Optimization, paid acquisition and email marketing. He is also an online editor and writer based out of Los Angeles, CA. He studied at Georgetown University, worked at Google and became infatuated with English Grammar and for years has been diving into the language, demystifying the do's and don'ts for all who share the same passion! He can be found online here.