blow a raspberry

An informal phrase for making a rude or playful buzzing sound with the lips and tongue to mock, tease, or show dislike.

Examples

  • Fans blew raspberries after the bad call.
  • The child blew a raspberry instead of answering.
  • The comedian blew a raspberry to mock the villain.
  • He made everyone laugh by blowing a raspberry.
  • She blew a raspberry when the plan was rejected.

Meanings

Usage

Use it in informal contexts where a childish, teasing, or rude reaction is meant. For a neutral description, say made a buzzing sound with the lips.

Common mistakes

Blow raspberry is missing the article. The standard phrase is blow a raspberry, and the past form is blew a raspberry.

Etymology

The phrase uses raspberry for the sound made by vibrating the lips and tongue. In British rhyming slang, raspberry tart rhymed with fart, which helped link raspberry with a rude noise.

FAQ

What does blow a raspberry mean?

It means to make a rude or playful buzzing sound with the lips and tongue.

Is it blow raspberry or blow a raspberry?

The standard phrase is blow a raspberry, with the article a.

Is blowing a raspberry rude?

It can be rude, especially in serious situations, but it can also be playful among children or friends.

What is the past tense of blow a raspberry?

The past tense is blew a raspberry.

Does blow a raspberry refer to fruit?

No. Raspberry names the rude buzzing sound, not the berry itself.

What is another name for blowing a raspberry?

Another term is a Bronx cheer. You can also say make a rude noise or make a razzing sound.

How do you use blow a raspberry in a sentence?

For example: The toddler blew a raspberry at his brother.

Look up word or phrase...