shout-out

noun

ˈshau̇t-ˌau̇t 

variants or less commonly shoutout

plural shout-outs also shoutouts

informal

: a public expression of greeting, praise, or acknowledgement directed toward a person or group often as part of a performance, recording, or broadcast

She opened her acceptance speech with a shout-out to James Baldwin, the author of the book on which the movie was based, calling him "one of the greatest artists of our time."

—Neal Justin

Here are a few lyrical shout-outs to some of hip hop's favorite designers.

—Scott Poulson-Bryant

She even gave a shoutout to one of her former teachers on Twitter, and encouraged others to do the same.

—Emily Sweeney

Examples of shout-out in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Before toasting a shot of alcohol, Drake gave Tory Lanez a shout-out. —Michael Saponara, Billboard, 27 Dec. 2024

This can be as straightforward as giving a shout-out to a loyal fan on social media or creating exclusive experiences, such as private listening sessions or meet-and-greets (even virtual ones!). —Justin Grome, Forbes, 27 Dec. 2024

Among the few state shout-outs this year was an episode in which the gang went to a wrestling convention in Milwaukee. —Chris Foran, Journal Sentinel, 26 Dec. 2024

Special shout-out to Ronny Chieng as Willis' best friend Fatty, who has to take over Willis' waiter duties and inadvertently becomes a viral sensation with his rude outbursts directed at non-Asian customers. —Ars Technica, 24 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1990, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

shout–out

noun

variants also shoutout

ˈshau̇t-ˌau̇t

informal

: a public expression of greeting, praise, or acknowledgment directed toward a person or group often as part of a performance, broadcast, or recording