Opa

/ˈoʊpɑː/ exclamation

Definition

A joyful exclamation used in Greek culture, similar to 'hooray!' Often shouted while breaking plates or dancing.

Etymology

From Greek 'ōpá,' an exclamation of unknown ultimate origin, but used for centuries in Greek celebrations and folklore.

Kelly Says

The traditional plate-breaking at Greek celebrations while shouting 'Opa!' isn't actually ancient—it became popular in the 1950s and 1960s from a movie scene, then people assumed it was ancient tradition, making it a beautiful example of invented tradition.

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