An exclamation of approval or joy; a cheer or shout of celebration.
From Italian 'evviva,' which itself comes from Latin 'vivat,' meaning 'let [it] live' or 'long live.' It's an optative (wishing) form that became an acclamation.
This Italian exclamation shows up in English literature and music, especially in opera contexts—it's essentially the Italian 'hurray,' and it reveals how many English speakers borrowed celebration words directly from other languages rather than inventing our own.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.