alley oop

Definition

Encouraging or calling attention to a physical performance, especially one involving an upwards lift or leap.

Etymology

Borrowed from French allez-hop!, the cry of a circus acrobat about to leap. From allez (“go! let's go!”), 2nd-person plural or formal indicative form of aller, and hop, onomatopoeic.

Example Sentences

• "I fortunately found a spark plug on the burn and got that repaired and alley oop!"
• "He lifted her onto the verandah, crying “Allee-oops!”"
• "Allez--... --oop! Beautiful! Great flip Mike!"