coo
word
Definition
To make a soft, gentle sound like a dove or pigeon; also used for speaking softly and lovingly, especially to a baby.
Usage & Nuances
Used both for bird sounds (especially doves and pigeons) and for human speech when talking softly and lovingly. Common with babies ('coo over a baby'). Not used for romantic 'whisper' or secret speech.
Spanish: arrullarPortuguese (BR): arrulharPortuguese (PT): arrulharChinese (Simplified): 咕咕叫 (鸽子等) - 低声细语Chinese (Traditional): 咕咕叫 (鴿子等) - 低聲細語Hindi: गुटरगूं करना (कबूतर) - प्यार से बोलनाArabic: يهدل (صوت الحمام) - يهمس بحنان
Example Sentences
The dove began to coo softly in the morning.
basic
Babies often coo when they are happy.
basic
She loves to coo to her newborn son.
basic
The pigeons cooed on the windowsill all afternoon.
natural
Grandparents just love to coo over their grandkids.
natural
She couldn't help but coo sweetly into the baby's ear.
natural